Up to 40 mm of rain expected in Ottawa on Thursday

A person walks through the rain in Ottawa. (CTV News Ottawa)

Ottawa could be soaked by up to 40 millimetres of rain on Thursday.

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the capital calling for heavy rain and thunderstorms.

“Showers continue as a strong low-pressure system approaches the area. There is a potential for severe thunderstorms late this morning or early this afternoon with heavy rain and strong wind gusts being the primary threats,” the statement says. “Rainfall amounts of 40 mm or greater are possible as a result of the showers and thunderstorms with this system.”

A yellow watch - severe thunderstorms is also in effect.

“Thunderstorms are expected to develop over the area later this morning as a low pressure system departs the province. Local utility outages are possible. Damage to roofs, fences, branches or soft shelters is possible,” Environment Canada says.

The storms could bring wind gusts near 90 km/h, heavy rain and a risk of tornadoes, according to Environment Canada.

The weather forecast for Thursday includes a high of 20 C with a humidex of 25 on Thursday. Wind gusts could reach up to 60 km/h late Thursday morning.

Thursday evening is cloudy with a 60 per cent chance of showers and risk of a thunderstorm. The overnight low is 15 C.

Friday’s outlook is cloudy with a 60 per cent chance of showers and the risk of a thunderstorm in the afternoon. High 19 C.

Saturday is also looking cloudy with a 40 per cent chance of showers and a high of 19 C.

Sunday’s forecast has a mix of sun and cloud with a 40 per cent chance of showers and a high of 24 C.

Monday could be cloudy with a 30 per cent chance of showers and a high of 21 C.

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