Environment Canada issues widespread heat warnings across Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes, with severe thunderstorm risk in some areas

Environment Canada has issued scores of heat warnings for most of Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island, with humidex values expected to reach the 40s. Daytime temperatures in Ontario are in the mid-30s, and similar heat is forecast for much of Quebec and the Maritimes, expected to linger into the weekend. In addition to the heat, severe thunderstorm watches have been issued for regions like Ottawa and Lanark, with potential for strong wind gusts near 100 km/h, heavy rain (up to 30 mm), and ping-pong ball sized hail. Widespread power outages have already been reported in Ontario and Quebec due to recent severe thunderstorms.