Although Ontario is gearing up to see its hottest temperatures so far in 2024 next week, an impending thunderstorm and possible tornadoes are preparing to shake things up just a few days ahead of the official start of summer. 

Tornado watches are in effect for multiple areas surrounding Toronto, including Newmarket, Uxbridge, Peterborough, Caledon, Barrie, Haliburton and Muskoka. 

Environment Canada has issued an extensive list of severe weather alerts, including two warnings in northern Ontario and over 70 weather watches throughout the province. 

The department issued the majority of the watches on Thursday morning, warning of wind gusts with speeds of 110 km/h, nickel to toonie sized hail, and the risk of tornadoes. 

"Severe thunderstorms are expected to develop and track through the region today. Strong wind gusts and large hail are the main threats," Environment Canada warned. 

Thunderstorm Outlook for today ⛈️

Thunderstorms that may produce significant winds, toonie sized hail and possible tornadoes are expected for most of S and E ON. The possibility of isolated thunderstorms remains for portions of N and S ON.#ONStorm #ONWx pic.twitter.com/YQNi79Idf0

— ECCC Weather Ontario (@ECCCWeatherON) June 13, 2024

"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. Remember, severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes. Water-related activities may be unsafe due to violent and sudden gusts of wind over bodies of water." 

The department called the situation "potentially life-threatening" in some areas and warned residents to take cover if a tornado forms in the area. 

The bout of severe weather is expected to start this afternoon and extend until the early evening. In Toronto, gusts are expected to start at approximately 1 p.m. and reach speeds of 50 km/h. After 4 p.m., there will be a risk of thunderstorms in the city, which will extend well into Thursday night. 

Despite this, Toronto residents have multiple days of gorgeous weather to look forward to. On Friday, we'll see a high of 25 C, and the warm temperatures will persist throughout the weekend. 

Things will really heat up on Wednesday when Toronto's high of 32 C will actually feel like a scorching 41 C.