Severe thunderstorm watch in effect for Ottawa: Environment Canada

People visit Ottawa's Kìwekì Point on a hot and cloudy spring day. June 12, 2026. (CTV News Ottawa)

Environment Canada has issued a thunderstorm watch for Ottawa on Saturday.

The organization issued a yellow watch-severe thunderstorm around 12:15, saying, “conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts and large hail.”

The watch is in effect through the afternoon into the evening, and a storm could feature 90 km/h winds and toonie-sized hail.

“Local utility outages are possible. Damage to roofs, fences, branches or soft shelters is possible. There is a risk of injury,” Environment Canada wrote.

“When thunder roars, go indoors! Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Secure loose objects. Emergency Management Ontario recommends that you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches.”

• Hourly and 7-day forecast on our CTVNewsOttawa.ca weather hub

Forecast

While Saturday began sunny in Ottawa, Environment Canada’s weather forecast says the afternoon will feature a mix of sun and clouds. By 4 p.m. and continuing through the evening, there will be a chance of showers and risk of thunderstorms.

The temperature in the capital is expected to reach 29 C on Saturday and dip to 15 C overnight.

Sunday will be cooler, with a high of 21 C, and showers are in the forecast.

On Monday, the forecast predicts a chance of showers and a high of 19 C.

On Tuesday, expect 24 C and a chance of showers.

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