Toronto could see torrential rain and thunderstorms tonight, prompting officials with the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority to issue a flood outlook for the city. This weather system is expected to begin on Monday night and continue overnight and into the early morning hours. In Toronto, Environment Canada says there is a 40 per cent chance of showers this afternoon and the risk of a thunderstorm. Showers and the risk of a thunderstorm jump to 70 per cent in the city tonight, with a 60 per cent chance of showers and the risk of a thunderstorm on Tuesday. “The forecasted thunderstorms are expected to bring up to 50 mm of total rainfall with heavy rain intensities at times, potentially exceeding 20 mm in one hour of time,” the conservation authority noted in statement. Flood outlooks serve as an early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for conditions that could lead to high runoff and cause ice jams or lakeshore flooding. This one is in effect until 11:59 p.m. tomorrow night. Officials are warning residents to say safe around water by avoiding rivers and riverbanks, shorelines, and nearby trails, and keep children and pets away from fast moving water and slippery or unstable riverbanks and consider postponing water related recreational activities due to these hazards until conditions improve. They’re also advising people to allow extra time for commuting, and never drive, walk, or bike through floodwater since it can be deeper or faster than it looks, as well as watch for ponding in low-lying areas and underpasses, or near storm drains. All detour and road closure signage should be followed, says TRCA. People are being urged to stay informed by following local weather forecasts and public alerts from Environment Canada and to share those details as well as flood safety info with their neighbours, especially those without internet access. Lastly, TRCA is encouraging municipalities and emergency services to consider reviewing flood preparedness protocols and increase monitoring in known flood vulnerable areas for changing conditions. To report a flooding incident from a watercourse, leave a message on TRCA’s flood line at 416-661-6514 or call 911 immediately, if you are in danger.
