Flood Forecasting & Warning Centre

Weather Conditions:

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) advises that Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for a weather system that is forecasted to bring rainfall amounts of 20mm to 50mm to the Greater Toronto Area. Rain is expected to begin Wednesday afternoon/evening, continue through Wednesday night, and Thursday morning. Heavy rainfall intensities and multiple storm waves (training storms) are possible. Temperatures will be increasing throughout Wednesday night and Thursday morning, which will contribute to ice and snow melt.

Issues:

Forecasted precipitation combined with warmer temperatures, saturated ground conditions from previous events and melting snow and ice will result in increased runoff into rivers systems, and water levels may change very rapidly. Storm is predicted to be a fast-moving system with multiple waves. Localized ponding is also possible in low-lying areas or areas with poor drainage. The combination of slippery and unstable banks, and rising water levels could create hazardous conditions near rivers or other water bodies. All shorelines, rivers, and streams within the GTA should be considered dangerous.

Actions:

Avoid all recreational activities in or around water at this time, including fishing, canoeing, hiking, etc, as conditions can change rapidly. Stay away from watercourses, especially areas previously covered with ice. Watercourses could be high and fast flowing, the banks may be slippery, and ice cover will not be stable. Please exercise caution if you must be around any bodies of water, rivers or streams as well as the Lake Ontario shoreline. Avoid areas already experiencing erosion or blockages with debris. Please alert any children under your care of these dangers and supervise their activities. Avoid driving through ponded areas or underpasses with deep water. Allow more time for commuting and be aware of potential transportation impacts.

This Flood Outlook, Watershed Conditions Statement will be in effect through to 6 pm Thursday, April 3, 2025.  To report a flooding incident from a watercourse, please leave a message on TRCA’s floodline listed below. If you are in danger, call 911 immediately.