Heavy rainfall causes severe flooding in GTA

Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning for the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) as up to 125 millimetres of rain is expected to fall. The heaviest rainfall is anticipated this morning and early afternoon, with up to 40 millimetres of rain per hour possible.

• READ MORE: Latest GTA car accidents

Flooding details

As of 12 p.m., the following disruptions have been reported:

• Lake Shore Blvd: Closed in both directions from British Columbia Road to Strachan Avenue due to severe flooding.
• Don Valley Parkway: Two left lanes on the northbound side blocked at Dundas Street.
• Public Safety Advisory: The City of Toronto advises avoiding Lake Shore Boulevard near Ontario Place due to significant water accumulation.

Videos sent in from a friend of mine in downtown #Toronto near King and Atlantic.#OnWX #Onstorm pic.twitter.com/jm8OgaEyFx

— WxOntario (@WxOntario1) July 16, 2024

Additional impact

Flooding has also impacted public transportation services:

• TTC: Trains are bypassing Pape and St. Patrick stations.
• Highway Flooding: Ontario Provincial Police have received reports of multiple highway locations affected by flooding.

Thousands of Toronto residents are currently without power due to the storm, according to Toronto Hydro’s outage map.

Environmental and safety concerns

Environment Canada warns that rapidly rising rivers and creeks can be hazardous. The public is advised to:

• Avoid stalled cars in rising water.
• Keep children and pets away from waterways.
• Move valuable items to higher levels in homes.

Manhole covers in parts of Peel Region have reportedly lifted due to the rainfall. The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority has issued a flood watch, citing risks of high runoff, flooding, and erosion.

For further updates and safety instructions, residents are encouraged to monitor local news and follow guidance from city officials.

Injuries due to rainfall

Injured in an accident due to the intense rainfall and flooding in the GTA? The dedicated slip & fall and car accident lawyers for Toronto and Mississauga at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP are here to support you.

We understand the overwhelming challenges you face after a serious accident and are committed to advocating for your rights. Our compassionate and experienced personal injury lawyers offer free consultations to guide you through the legal process and ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. Your recovery is our priority.