Ontario weather forecast calling for ‘torrential downpours’ from Hurricane Beryl remnants

If you were planning on soaking up some sun today, you’ll have to make other plans. Ontario’s weather forecast predicts a very wet day with rainfall warnings issued across the province.

Some regions of the province may receive over 60 mm of rainfall and “torrential downpours.” The storm could affect travel, so it’s best to plan ahead if you’re going to be on the road.

Here’s what to know about the storm, including what areas are expected to be impacted and when the weather should clear up.

On July 10, 2024, Environment Canada issued a rainfall warning for regions of southern Ontario and Quebec. The heavy rain is “associated with remnants of Hurricane Beryl,” which tore through Texas on Monday.

The hurricane has now been downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone and is excepted to bring “severe thunderstorms, heavy rain and flooding to parts of the Midwest, eastern Great Lakes and Northeast” as it moves northeastward, according to USA Today.

The Weather Network forecasts that the southwestern and eastern shores of Lake Ontario, including the eastern shores of Lake Erie and Niagara region, are most likely to experience the development of severe storms.

The Bruce Peninsula, Lake Huron shores to Windsor, and Prince Edward County to Cornwall can expect between 50 to over 75 mm. Meanwhile, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), cottage country, and the Ottawa region are forecasted to receive between 30 to 50 mm.

Ontario may see “torrential downpours giving rainfall rates of 20 to 40 mm per hour at times” according to Environment Canada.

The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority has issued a flood watch which is in effect until July 11.

“All shorelines, rivers and streams within the GTA should be considered dangerous as this rainfall will result in higher flows, rapidly changing water levels and unstable river banks,” the TRCA said.

Environment Canada warns that downpours can result in flash floods and water pooling on roads. If the rainfall reduces your visibility while driving, slow down, keep an eye out for tail lights ahead and be ready to stop.

The rain is expected to turn to scattered showers from west to east tonight into early Thursday morning.

You can see a full list of areas with a weather alert on the Environment Canada website.

This article’s cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.