Severe thunderstorm watch in effect in Toronto with hail, heavy rain possible

FILE - People gather at Woodbine Beach during a heat wave on Canada Day, in Toronto on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Arlyn McAdorey

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Toronto as heat warning remains in effect.

The national weather agency says conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms, which could produce strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.

“Thunderstorms may quickly develop over the area today,” Environment Canada said in its advisory.

“Local utility outages are possible. There is a risk of injury.”

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Meanwhile, the city continues to bake under the “long-duration heat event.” As of 1 p.m., the city has reached a high of 33.3 C with a humidex of 43.

Environment Canada says hot conditions are expected to last until Saturday.

For anyone going to outdoor watch parties to see Canada’s Round of 32 match against Morocco, it will be a mix of sun and cloud on Saturday with 40 per cent chance of showers and a high of 31 C.

There will be some relief on Sunday with a high of 26 C, cloudy conditions and a 30 per cent chance of showers.