Water safety advisory in effect for Friday as heavy rainfall expected in GTA

On Friday morning, the GTA is expected to be hit with a weather system that may bring between 25 mm to 40 mm of rain, according to Environment Canada.

The rain began in the early morning hours on Friday and is expected to taper off in the evening.

See also

• Ottawa declares state of emergency due to flooding
• Ontario cottage country in state of emergency due to flooding
• There's a chance of flurries in Toronto's weekend forecast

As the GTA continues to be hit with heavy rain, the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority has issued a Water Safety statement, that will be in effect until noon on Saturday.

The TRCA warns that these rainfall amounts may result in rising water levels in rivers and streams creating hazardous conditions. They also warn there may be ponding and pooling in low-lying areas and for residents to exercise caution around all bodies of water.

“All shorelines, rivers and streams within the GTA should be considered hazardous,” reads the statement.

#TrafficAlertTO: I53087 LAKE SHORE BLVD W WB BEYOND REMEMBRANCE DR: Eastbound and Westbound right lanes closed due to flooding. (2019/04/26 05:24 AM).

— Gardiner Lake Shore (@TO_Gardiner_LS) April 26, 2019

The heavy rain comes as numerous Ontario cities have declared a state of emergency after rain and snowmelt have caused river and lake waters to rise significantly.

On Wednesday, both Bracebridge and Huntsville, located just over two hours north of Toronto, declared flood emergencies.

Ottawa also declared a state of emergency on Thursday as a result of continued flooding in the area, and the city has since formally requested financial assistance and additional resources on the ground to support city staff.