Environment Canada has issued significant rainfall warnings across much of southern Ontario, including Toronto and its surrounding areas, as the region braces for heavy downpours and dense fog. The agency forecasts up to 35 millimeters of rain for cities like Toronto, Hamilton, and Kitchener, with London and Windsor possibly receiving as much as 50 millimeters.
The rain began Sunday morning and is expected to be heavy at times, tapering off later in the day. Alongside the rainfall, fog advisories are currently active for Ottawa, Peterborough, Kenora, and surrounding regions, heightening concerns about reduced visibility.
Officials at Environment Canada are urging the public to remain vigilant, especially near rivers, creeks, and culverts, due to the risk of washouts. The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority has echoed these warnings, noting the combination of rainfall, above-freezing temperatures, frozen ground, and ice and snow melt could lead to dangerous conditions near waterways.
Residents are reminded to keep children and pets away from creeks and riverbanks. Barbara Lapido, operational meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, highlighted the significance of monitoring local conditions. "There will be localized flooding, with significant concerns for safety on slick surfaces and increased water levels," Lapido stated.
At Canada’s Wonderland, the beloved amusement park north of Toronto, the weather has forced the cancellation of its Winter Fest activities. The park announced it would remain closed Sunday due to the inclement weather. "Canada's Wonderland... says it will be closed Sunday due to inclement weather," the report noted.
Visibility issues due to fog are compounded by the anticipated rainfall, bringing the potential for slippery roads and hazardous driving conditions. Regions within southwestern Ontario are expecting not just rain, but also some freezing rain, potentially affecting travel and safety.
The forecast shows rain beginning to accumulate this morning and expected to persist heavily by the afternoon as temperatures hold steady around 3°C. Humidity levels are at their peak of 100%, creating the perfect conditions for dense fog. Wind speeds are relatively light at 9 km/h, but the weather is expected to shift dramatically as the system progresses.
While the current conditions may feel mild, the combination of rain gear, waterproof shoes, and caution on slippery surfaces is necessary as Ontarians venture out. Tonight, rainfall is set to taper off around midnight, with additional precipitation of up to 5 mm expected.
The forecast for Monday indicates variable weather, with morning showers continuing intermittently before ending later. Daytime temperatures will hover around 4°C and be accompanied by gusty winds reaching up to 60 km/h, which will add chill to the air.
Historically, December 29 has seen notable weather patterns. Previous peaks include the warmest recorded high of 14.4°C in 1984 and lows plunging to -21.1°C of 1925. Today’s warm rainy conditions are juxtaposed against those extremes, with residents experiencing the rush of weather changes.
Moving forward, future forecasts suggest more dynamic weather patterns, with expectations of rain or snow across the northeastern regions as New Year approaches. Lapido advises all travelers to remain aware of changing conditions and to consult Environment Canada’s website for the latest updates on weather impacts.