The Greater Toronto Area and southern Ontario are preparing for the arrival of strong storms, with severe impacts expected in the afternoon, according to warnings issued by local authorities.

According to meteorologist Bill Coulter, the weather scenario in the Toronto area in the morning of the day of the warning presented sharp contrasts, with the eastern part of the metropolitan region experiencing unstable conditions, while the western side experienced relatively dry weather.

Initial expectations called for a brief break in the rain around 9 a.m., but unsettled and blustery weather was forecast to return to the Greater Toronto Area in the afternoon.

“With the arrival of this cold front today, both in front of it and along its path, we anticipate some very intense storms,” ​​Coulter said of the phenomenon.

He detailed that the heaviest and most severe rains are expected between 3:30 pm and 4 pm, and could last until around 7:30 pm and 8 pm across southern Ontario.

The expert also warned of the possibility of tornadic activity occurring during this period of bad weather in the region.

For the day after the warning, there are signs of thunderstorms in some areas of southwestern Ontario; however, weather conditions are projected to remain stable in the Greater Toronto Area, Coulter reported.

On the day of the alert, Toronto recorded a maximum temperature of 28°C, with the thermal sensation reaching around 36°C due to humidity levels.

The forecast for the following day indicated a sunny day, with maximum temperatures reaching 27°C.

Coulter also stated that the weather would be “bright and pleasant” in the days following the alert, covering the weekend.

Given the projection of intense rain over the next 24 hours, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow announced the activation of the city’s emergency operations center.

“All city divisions and agencies, including transportation, shelter services and emergency teams, are collaborating to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of Toronto’s citizens,” the mayor said in a social media post.

“We have a plan in place and it is already underway. If you or someone you know is at risk, call the 911 emergency service”, added Olivia Chow.