All storm warnings ended Thursday night after a tornado warning briefly covered Sharbot Lake, southwest of Ottawa, amid severe thunderstorms.
Storm System Clears Ottawa-Gatineau Region
All weather warnings have ended for the Ottawa-Gatineau region after a fast-moving storm system passed through eastern Ontario and western Quebec on Thursday evening. The system brought intense heat, thunderstorms, and a brief tornado warning near Sharbot Lake.
Tornado Warning Issued Near Sharbot Lake
At 9:20 p.m., Environment Canada issued a tornado warning for the Sharbot Lake area, located southwest of Ottawa. Forecasters said a storm possibly producing a tornado was moving east. Within 20 minutes, the warning was downgraded to a severe thunderstorm warning. As of now, it is unclear whether a tornado actually occurred.
Broader Risk Extended Across Eastern Ontario
The tornado threat was part of a wider warning area that extended across many eastern Ontario communities west of Ottawa until about 10 p.m. and continued briefly for parts of western Quebec. The weather system brought strong wind gusts, large hail, heavy rain, and frequent lightning.
Environment Canada Urges Preparedness
Environment Canada reminded the public to take cover indoors—preferably in a basement—during severe weather. The agency emphasized that strong winds can damage trees, structures, and even overturn vehicles. A watch indicates favourable conditions for a storm, while a warning means hazardous weather is imminent or occurring.
Tornado Risk Had Been Flagged Since Tuesday
Forecasters had been highlighting the potential for tornadoes in eastern Ontario since Tuesday, citing unstable conditions due to high humidity and rising temperatures.
Intense Heat Preceded the Storm
Thursday also brought extreme heat to the capital. Ottawa reached a high of 33°C by 3 p.m., with humidex values peaking at 42°C—high enough for a heat warning, although not prolonged enough to qualify officially. A cooler 28°C is forecasted for Friday.
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