Residents in Bracebridge are being warned of severe weather today, Tuesday, May 19, 2026, as Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the area. The alert, which comes following several days of hot and humid weather, notes that conditions are favourable for strong wind gusts, large hail, and the possibility of a tornado this afternoon and evening.
As of 5:33 p.m. today, local conditions at the Muskoka Airport showed a temperature of 24.3°C with a humidex of 31. Forecasters indicate that storms could produce wind gusts between 90 and 110 kilometres per hour, with hail reaching the size of ping pong balls. According to Instant Weather, the Bracebridge and Gravenhurst area remains in a level two out of five risk zone for these severe storms.
Following the passage of this storm system, the community will see a significant shift in weather. Wednesday will be much cooler, with a high of 12°C and an overnight low dropping to plus 2°C, bringing a risk of frost. More stable, sunny conditions are expected to return on Thursday with a high of 15°C.
In light of the potential for severe weather, Emergency Management Ontario reminds residents to take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches. Federal guidelines from the Government of Canada emphasize that because lightning strikes cause injuries and deaths annually, the safest course of action during a storm is to stay indoors.
