Severe thunderstorm warnings, heat warnings issued in northwestern Ontario

Severe thunderstorm warnings, heat warnings issued in northwestern Ontario

Wind gusts up to 90 kilometres an hour expected

Several communities across northwestern Ontario are under severe thunderstorm watches as of Thursday morning, while much of the region also remains under heat warnings.

Communities affected by yellow-level severe thunderstorm warnings include:

“Environment Canada meteorologists are tracking a severe thunderstorm capable of producing strong wind gusts, up to quarter size hail and heavy rain,” the warning says.

Between 15 and 50 millimetres of heavy rain is possible, with wind gusts up to 90 kilometres an hour.

Here's the latest on northwestern Ontario's forest fires: Thursday, July 30

“Take immediate cover if a thunderstorm approaches. If outside, protect yourself from flying debris and hail,” Environment and Climate Change Canada says.

Meanwhile, the following communities remain under yellow-level heat warnings:

Daytime highs between 29 C and 31 C are expected with humidex values of between 33 C and 38 C.

“This multi-day heat event is expected to end this evening but may continue into Friday for some areas. Hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and can result in the Air Quality Health Index approaching the high-risk category,” Environment and Climate Change Canada says.

People can report severe weather by emailing ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or using #ONStorm on social media.

Sarah Law is a CBC News reporter based in Thunder Bay, Ont., and has also worked for newspapers and online publications elsewhere in the province. Have a story tip? You can reach her at sarah.law@cbc.ca.