Thunderstorm watch in effect, heat warning continues for Toronto & parts of GTA

There could be a bit of relief on the way from the heat and humidity that has taken over Toronto and the GTA.

But it might not last long.

Increasing cloud cover will bring a chance of showers and thunderstorms Thursday afternoon which should end just before the evening rush hour, and then there’s the possibility of another thunderstorm later in the evening, 680 NEWS meteorologist Jill Taylor said.

Ahead of the rain, Environment Canada issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the City of Toronto and parts of the GTA.

“Given the high heat and humidity a few of these thunderstorms could be intense resulting in localized torrential downpours,” the agency said in a release.

“These thunderstorms are expected to be slow moving, thus some locations could receive on the order of 25 to 50 mm of rain over a short period of time. Localized wind gusts up to 90 km/h will also be a concern.

“Fast-moving water across a road can sweep a vehicle away. Strong wind gusts are also possible. Intense lightning is likely with any thunderstorm that develops. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads.”

The rain will see the overnight low dip to around 18 C.

Environment Canada said a cool down is expected on Friday with the passing of a cold front.

The temperatures should remain under 30 C for a few days, but things start to heat up again on Sunday.