The City of Toronto has activated its emergency operations centre ahead of intense storms expected to hit Toronto and other parts of southern Ontario this afternoon. Environment Canada has issued a tornado advisory for Toronto, with wind gusts of more than 110 km/h possible. Torrential downpours are expected, with local rainfall amounts of up to 50 millimetres, along with hail ranging from quarter-sized to ping-pong-ball-sized, according to Environment Canada. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow said the emergency centre was activated due to “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,” Chow wrote in a post on social media on Wednesday morning. “We have a plan and it’s underway. If you or someone you know is in danger, call 911.” Strong thunderstorms are expected to sweep across southern Ontario on Wednesday afternoon, CP24 Meteorologist Bill Coulter said. “When that cold front comes down later today ahead of it and along it we are going to see some very strong storms,” he 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.” Thunderstorm are 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.
