Strong thunderstorms are expected to sweep across southern Ontario on Wednesday afternoon. CP24 Meteorologist Bill Coulter said the weather story for Toronto was a “tale of two cities” on Wednesday morning, with eastern parts of the GTA seeing active weather while the western section remained relatively clear. Rain is expected to briefly clear at around 9 a.m. but the stormy weather will return to the GTA this afternoon. “When that cold front comes down later today ahead of it and along it we are going to see some very strong storms,” Coulter said. “At around 3:30, 4 p.m., all the way to about 7:30, 8 p.m., that is when we are going to see strong thunderstorms right across southern Ontario.” He noted that tornadic activity is also possible. Thunderstorm activity is possible for parts of southwestern Ontario on Thursday but conditions should be clear in the GTA, Coulter said. Toronto will see a high of 28 C on Wednesday, feeling closer to 36 when factoring in the humidity. Thursday will see sunshine and high of 27 C. “Bright and beautiful” weather is on tap for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Coulter said. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow said the city is activating its emergency operations centre ahead of the “major” rainfall that is expected over the 24 hours. “City divisions and agencies, including transportation, shelter services, @TTChelps and emergency services are working together to monitor the situation and keep Torontonians safe,” she wrote in a post on social media. “We have a plan and it’s underway. If you or someone you know is in danger, call 911.”
