Hot and humid summer weather across Ontario creates the perfect conditions for thunderstorms, according to Environment Canada Senior Climatologist David Phillips.
Phillips said heat and humidity act as the “fuel” that powers most summer storms.
He explained that most summer thunderstorms, sometimes called “popcorn thunderstorms,” last between 30 and 60 minutes before moving on. While they can bring heavy rain, lightning and gusty winds, Phillips said they often cause only minor disruptions.
More dangerous storms develop when cold fronts, lake breezes or other weather systems force warm, moist air higher into the atmosphere. “It’s like giving steroids to a column of rising air,” Phillips said.
Environment Canada issues a Severe Thunderstorm Warning only when storms are expected to produce wind gusts over 90 km/h, at least 50 millimetres of rain in an hour, large hail or the potential for a tornado.
Phillips noted we get more thunderstorms than we get severe thunderstorms, fortunately.
He encouraged residents to monitor forecasts and watch the sky.
