Heavy Rainfall and Tornado Alerts Sweep Across Ontario and Quebec
Environment Canada has extended its heavy rainfall warning for Greater Sudbury and surrounding areas this morning. A low-pressure system continues to impact the region after dropping nearly 50 mm of rain overnight.
Another 15 to 30 mm of rain is expected before the storm moves out. Some areas have already reported accumulations near 40 mm.
The agency warned of flash floods, water pooling on roads, and localized flooding in low-lying areas. Motorists should use extra caution during the morning commute and avoid driving through water-covered roads.
Severe Thunderstorm and Tornado Risk in Ottawa Valley
Meanwhile, eastern Ontario, especially around Petawawa and Pembroke, is under close watch for tornado-producing thunderstorms.
Environment Canada meteorologists tracked severe storms early Thursday that could trigger damaging winds, large hail, and possibly tornadoes. These conditions stem from a cold front sweeping through the region, expected to exit by Thursday evening.
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“This is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation,” the agency stated, urging residents to take shelter if conditions worsen.
What to Do During a Tornado Threat
Officials recommend taking shelter in a basement, interior bathroom, or closet, away from windows and outside walls. If outdoors and no shelter is available, lie in a low spot and protect your head from debris.
Wind gusts may reach 100 km/h in Ottawa, with 50+ mm of rainfall possible. Residents are advised to prepare for potential power outages, damaged trees, and low visibility due to heavy rain.
Tornado Warning Lifted in Pembroke, But Storm Threat Remains
A brief tornado warning in the Pembroke area has ended, but a severe thunderstorm warning is now in effect west of Gatineau.
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Environment Canada says the Ottawa region remains at risk for tornado activity, although no threats are currently forecasted for Belleville, Bancroft, or Pembroke.
A strong storm system moved across Algonquin Park earlier Thursday. While tornado activity has not been confirmed, the threat remains for eastern Ontario and western Quebec.
Heat warnings remain in some areas but are expected to ease as the cold front passes.
Stay Alert and Report Weather Conditions
Residents should continue monitoring official weather alerts, especially if traveling across Ontario or Quebec. To report severe conditions, email ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or post on social media using #ONStorm.
What’s your go-to safety plan during extreme weather events like this—do you shelter at home or somewhere else?
More…
- https://www.sudbury.com/local-news/environment-canada-extends-heavy-rainfall-warning-through-this-morning-10955115
- https://ottawa.citynews.ca/2025/07/17/severe-thunderstorm-possible-prompting-tornado-fears-in-ottawa-valley
- https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/thunderstorm-tornado-ottawa-gatineau-july-17-weather-forecast-1.7587277
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