Tornado and 3 other weather warnings issued for Ontario

UPDATE: Environment Canada has upgraded the weather advisory, adding two more warnings from this morning, bringing the total to four, including one for a potential tornado that could impact parts of Ontario today.

If you’re heading out for any summer concerts or festivals, it’s wise to stay prepared with an umbrella, as heavy rain and stormy weather are expected across Ontario today  (August 17).

Environment Canada issued two weather advisories today with warnings of torrential rain and thunderstorms.

• Mississauga
• Brampton
• Halton Hills
• Burlington
• Oakville
• Milton
• Caledon
• Hamilton
• Pickering
• Ajax
• Whitby
• Oshawa
• Uxbridge
• Etobicoke
• Port Credit
• Lakeview
• Clarington
• Niagara
• St Catharines
• Lincoln
• Welland

Significant rainfall and severe thunderstorms are expected this weekend, with local totals ranging from 30 to 60 mm and rainfall rates reaching up to 40 mm in an hour.

The rain will persist from this morning through Sunday, with heavier downpours likely during thunderstorms, which are anticipated to begin this afternoon and evening.

This weather pattern can bring rapidly changing conditions, shifting from sunny skies to heavy downpours.

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“Rainfall warnings may be issued on short notice, as heavy rain can cause flash floods, water pooling on roads and localized flooding in low-lying areas,” Environment Canada noted on its website.

Individuals are advised to stay alert, as conditions are favourable for severe thunderstorms capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail, and tornadoes.

According to Environment Canada, lightning poses a significant danger and residents are reminded, “When thunder roars, go indoors!”

Residents can consult their local Conservation Authority or the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry for flooding information.