Shoreline hazard warning still in effect for Toronto following Thursday's intense rainfall

Following a very intense rainfall on Thursday, a shoreline hazard warning for Lake Ontario remains in place.

On Thursday evening, Environment Canada issued a special weather statement when heavy precipitation was expected in Toronto. The weather agency said a band of slow-moving precipitation had developed over the region and could bring locally heavy rain to the area of up to 40 mm.

Amid the rainfall, Toronto police warned the public that a portion of Lake Shore Boulevard closed because of flooding, from Ontario Street to Strachan Avenue.

Hazard:
Lake Shore Blvd/ Ontario Dr
– flooding on the roadway
– Lake shore blvd is being closed from Ontario St to Strachan Ave
– Please avoid@TPS14Div #GO1146588^adc

— Toronto Police OPS (@TPSOperations) June 21, 2019

Additionally, the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) issued a shoreline hazard warning for Lake Ontario Thursday evening, saying all rivers and streams in the Toronto area should be considered “hazardous.”

TRCA has issued a Watershed Conditions Statement: Flood Outlook message for rivers through June 21 & Lake Ontario Shoreline Hazard Warning is still in effect. There is a possibility of high-intensity storms in localized areas of GTA this evening. #onstorm https://t.co/5wGMswDlis

— TRCA Flood (@TRCA_Flood) June 20, 2019

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The TRCA says the shoreline hazard warning still remains in place for Toronto as long as the lake level remains above 75.5 metres.

“At the current lake levels, any high winds from any direction can result in significant wave action and lake surge.”

Due to the high Lake Ontario water levels, the TRCA is warning the public of the impacts such as shortened beaches, land and infrastructure erosion, trail/boardwalk closures, localized ponding and flooding, have been occurring throughout shoreline areas in the region.

“Stay away from areas that are currently experiencing flooding and erosion and obey all trail closure notices,” said the TRCA.

“Boardwalks and other pathways along Lake Ontario’s waterfront are dangerous due to the high water levels combined with wind, surge and wave action.”