Toronto could see between 20 and 40 millimetres of rain Sunday afternoon, Environment Canada says.
Freezing rain is set to begin around noon near the west end of Lake Ontario, spreading out to the east in the afternoon, Environment Canada said. Between 5 to 10 millimetres of rain is expected during the day, while 20 to 30 millimetres of rain and fog patches are expected for the evening.
The national weather agency enacted a yellow rainfall warning for the city, noting rain could be heavy at times. Environment Canada’s warning also states the frozen ground reduces the ability to absorb rainfall.
Some roads may become impassable due to possible localized flooding, Environment Canada said.
The rain is set to ease Monday morning. But Environment Canada said Torontonians should expect strong winds Monday.
The weather agency recommends clearing storm drains of snow and ice if possible, avoiding low-lying areas and staying away from rivers, creeks and culverts.
In a statement Sunday, the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority said water levels may rise as a result of the expected rainfall.
“The ground in TRCA watersheds is frozen which will stop rain and melted snow from soaking in and makes more water run into rivers,” the TRCA said. “All shorelines, rivers, and streams in TRCA jurisdiction should be considered dangerous as this rainfall may cause rapidly changing conditions in TRCA rivers.”
Toronto will be cloudy with a high of 2 C, which will feel like -8 C with wind chill Sunday morning. Wind gusts will reach 40km/h.
Environment Canada has also enacted a special weather statement for Monday as the city is set to get hit with 70 to 80 km/h wind gusts.
The winds come as a strong cold front passes through. Environment Canada said areas with ice accretion from freezing rain will be most vulnerable.
Local utility outages are possible as well as damage to roofs, fences, branches and soft shelters. Environment Canada recommends securing loose objects.
