Barrie, Ontario, will see a classic summer shift this week, starting with a hot and sunny Monday before showers and a risk of thunderstorms move in mid-week, according to Environment Canada.
Monday, July 20, is forecast to reach a high of 26°C under clear skies, with a humidex of 28 making it feel even warmer. The UV index is expected to hit 8, which Environment Canada rates as very high. Residents are urged to limit sun exposure, especially between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., wear UV-protective sunglasses, stay in the shade when possible, and reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Conditions will turn unsettled on Tuesday, July 21, with showers and a risk of a thunderstorm. Local rainfall amounts of 10 to 15 mm are possible, along with southwest winds gusting to 40 km/h. The high will be 23°C, with a moderate UV index of 3. Wednesday, July 22, will bring a mix of sun and cloud, a 30 per cent chance of showers, and a cooler high of 20°C.
By Thursday, skies are expected to clear, with sunshine returning and a high of 24°C. Friday will stay sunny and climb to 26°C, while Saturday looks like a mix of sun and cloud with a high of 26°C. The overall pattern aligns with a wetter-than-normal summer forecast for Ontario, driven by El Niño conditions that are likely to bring more frequent showers and thunderstorms throughout the season.
Residents planning outdoor activities should take advantage of the sunny bookends early and late in the week while preparing for the mid-week rain. With sunrise at 5:53 a.m. and sunset at 8:57 p.m. on Monday, there will be plenty of daylight to enjoy the improving conditions later in the week.
