Durham weekend weather should start pleasantly on Saturday before conditions turn wetter Sunday, with showers and thunderstorms possible across the region.
Current forecasts indicate Saturday, August 15 will offer the better opportunity for outdoor activities in Oshawa, Pickering and surrounding Durham communities.
Conditions are then expected to deteriorate Saturday night into Sunday as a weather system spreads across southern Ontario.
Durham Weekend Weather Turns Wet Sunday
Saturday is forecast to be mainly sunny across much of Durham Region, with daytime temperatures generally reaching the mid-20s.
Clouds are expected to increase later as the next weather system approaches.
By Sunday, Environment Canada is forecasting a much greater chance of precipitation. Pickering and surrounding southern Durham communities have a 70 per cent chance of showers in the forecast, while Oshawa could see both showers and a thunderstorm.
Residents planning outdoor events, beach visits, boating or other weekend activities should therefore keep an eye on updated forecasts.
Stronger Thunderstorms Possible Across Southern Ontario
Environment Canada meteorologist Geoff Coulson told Metroland that southern Ontario could experience two rounds of precipitation Sunday — one during the morning and another during the afternoon.
The afternoon round has a greater potential to produce stronger thunderstorms as atmospheric instability increases.
However, that does not mean severe weather is certain in Durham Region.
Environment Canada distinguishes thunderstorm outlooks from formal weather alerts. An outlook provides advance notice that conditions could become favourable for storms, while watches and warnings are issued when the threat becomes more immediate or specific.
Residents Should Monitor Sunday Forecast
Because thunderstorm timing and intensity can change quickly, Durham residents should check Environment Canada forecasts and alerts throughout the weekend.
Anyone outdoors should move inside when thunder is heard and postpone boating or swimming when thunderstorms approach.
Drivers should also be prepared for reduced visibility and potentially slippery roads if heavier showers develop.
For now, Saturday appears to be the better outdoor day, while Sunday carries the greater risk of rain and thunderstorms across Durham Region.
