Severe thunderstorms expected in north Ajax, Oshawa, Pickering, Whitby and North Durham

Durham Region is expected to see some powerful thunderstorms this evening with hazards like strong winds, heavy rain and even large hailstones.

The system is caused by a cold front moving through southern Ontario colliding with the warm humid air already here. While Environment Canada says the main threats are wind and hail, they noted a tornado may develop as well.

“Large hail can damage property and cause injury. Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles,” Environment Canada wrote, “Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Water-related activities may be unsafe due to violent and sudden gusts of wind over bodies of water.”

“Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors,” they continued, “Emergency Management Ontario recommends that you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches.”

As of this writing around 2 p.m, Oshawa has a 40 per cent chance of showers which may develop into thunderstorms. This thunderstorm risk will continue throughout the afternoon until around 9 p.m. However, showers will likely continue overnight until early tomorrow morning.

While the risk was initially only for Durham’s northern reaches as well as York Region, Orillia and beyond, an updated model around 3 p.m. indicated the lakeshore communities will likely also get hit.