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Updated at 3 pm, July 21, 2026
TORONTO – In case you have not looked out the window or heard the torrential rains on your rooftop, Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for the City of Toronto as powerful storms capable of producing damaging winds, large hail and torrential rainfall causing flooding move through the region Tuesday afternoon.
The warning remains in effect until early this evening, with forecasters saying the most significant threats are damaging wind gusts and heavy rainfall that could lead to localized flash flooding.
Wind gusts of 90 to 110 km/h are possible, along with quarter-sized hail and rainfall totals exceeding 50 millimetres in areas that experience multiple thunderstorms.
Damaging winds and heavy rain are the biggest threats
Environment Canada warns that torrential downpours could quickly overwhelm storm drains, and they have, causing localized flooding and significantly reducing visibility on roads.
Strong wind gusts may also bring down tree branches, damage roofs, fences and temporary structures, and could lead to localized power outages across the city.
Drivers are urged to slow down during heavy rain and never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
Take shelter when storms approach
Environment and Climate Change Canada reminds residents that severe thunderstorms can develop rapidly.
“When thunder roars, go indoors” remains the safest advice. Lightning strikes kill and injure Canadians every year, even when storms appear to be several kilometres away.
Emergency Management Ontario recommends taking cover immediately in a sturdy building if threatening weather approaches and remaining indoors until the storm has passed.
Improving weather expected Wednesday
The unsettled weather is expected to move out of the Toronto area early this evening.
Environment Canada is forecasting showers to end Tuesday night, followed by a mix of sun and cloud on Wednesday with a high of 21°C. Sunny skies are expected to return Thursday, with temperatures gradually warming into the upper 20s by the end of the week.
Toronto residents are strongly encouraged to continue monitoring weather alerts, as warnings can be updated quickly if storm conditions intensify or additional cells develop.
Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or post reports on social media using #ONStorm. For more information: ontario.ca/page/be-prepared-emergency.
