After weeks of frigid temperatures and snow, the weather is set to take a sudden turn in Ontario, as meteorologists warn of a “major storm” that is expected to bring snow, heavy rain, a risk of thunderstorms and strong wind gusts.
A rainfall warning is in effect for much of southern and eastern Ontario, including the GTA, and Environment Canada says the storm could bring 25 to 50 millimetres Thursday and Friday.
With the return of mild weather, melting snow is increasing concerns about flooding.
Toronto's public works department is asking residents to clear ice and debris away from storm drains to prevent flooding.
Environment Canada said the weather will worsen when an Alberta clipper and a Texas low merge and rapidly intensify over Ontario.
A mix of snow and rain began in the GTA Thursday afternoon.
The heaviest rain is expected in the Windsor-Sarnia to Hamilton-Niagara corridor.
Freezing rain warning issued for areas north of Toronto
Environment Canada has issued a freezing rain warning for areas north of Toronto ahead of several hours of freezing rain expected to begin later Thursday night.
The warning, issued shortly after 9:30 p.m., covers areas including Barrie, Orillia, Midland, Caledon, and Grey and Bruce counties.
Snow is expected in many areas before changing over to freezing rain for a few hours, according to the release.
Stay away from streams
Local conservation authorities are telling people to stay away from rivers and streams because their banks will be slippery and unstable, and water levels and flows will be higher than normal.
The water temperature is very cold at this time of year.
Some roads and low-lying areas could flood, and ice could break up on rivers and streams.
Toronto Hydro spokeswoman Tanya Bruckmueller said the utility is monitoring the weather and it has extra staff on standby in case of power outages.
TTC: Customers should leave extra travel time
The Toronto Transit Commission is encouraging customers to plan ahead and allow extra time for commuting during and following the storm.
TTC spokesperson Brad Ross said there is not a lot that can be done by the organization in advance of the expected rain to try and limit its potential impact.
Instead, the TTC will respond to potential flooding by closing affected subway stations as the need arises. Extra personnel will also be monitoring the situation overnight.
Ponding and pooling of water on bus routes could also slow street-level traffic, Ross warned.
Metrolinx monitoring road, rail conditions: rep
While no specific warnings on increased travel times have been issued to commuters, a representative with Metrolinx is suggesting that customers keep a close eye on social media as the storm continues.
Metrolinx spokesperson Malon Edwards told CP24 that crews have prepared for the storm by inspecting areas prone to flooding, including the Richmond Hill corridor.
Edwards said the agency will continue to monitor the situation on roads and rail lines, and would update costumers on any deteriorating conditions via social media.
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