Rain, thunderstorms could dampen Canada Day celebrations

Rain and lightning may cast a shadow over your Canada Day plans.

Environment Canada calls for a 60 per cent chance of showers in the region for Friday (Jul. 1), with the risk of a thunderstorm throughout the day.

“Depending on where these showers and thunderstorms go, folks could see anywhere from five to 15 millimetres of precipitation. So, we’re not talking about the huge downpours or torrential rains that severe thunderstorms often bring, but people still need to take precautions," explained Natalie Hasell, a warning preparedness meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada.

In addition to the rain, Friday’s high of 21 C is a tad below normal, according to Hasell.

Saturday will look mostly the same, with a forecasted high of 17 C and scattered showers. However, Hasell doesn’t expect to see any significant rainfall.

The best day of the weekend will come on Sunday, with sunny conditions and a high of 21 C.

During last year's heat dome, the region experienced its hottest Canada Day on record, reaching 32.9 C. The lowest temperature was seen in 2009 when the mercury dropped to –1 C.

Hasell cautioned anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors on the holiday to seek shelter if thunderstorms roll through.