Toronto, ON – Batten down the hatches, Toronto! A rainfall warning remains in effect today as the city braces for yet more heavy downpours. The already saturated ground can hardly handle any more water, but Mother Nature has other plans. With additional rainfall amounts ranging from 20 to 40 mm expected, some areas could see rates of up to 40 mm in just one hour. This relentless rain follows yesterday’s deluge, which exceeded 100 mm in some locations, leading to concerns about flooding, especially in low-lying areas.
Current Conditions: As of 8:00 AM, it’s mostly cloudy with the temperature sitting at 21.3°C. The dew point matches the temperature at 21.3°C, which means the air is fully saturated at 100% humidity. The wind is gently blowing from the south-southwest at 8 km/h, and the barometric pressure is at 100.5 kPa, currently rising—a slight indication that conditions may eventually start to stabilize.
Today’s Forecast: Expect a mix of clouds with a 60% chance of showers this morning, leading into more substantial showers or thunderstorms by noon. The high will reach 25°C, but it will feel much warmer due to the humidity, with a humidex of 33. Winds will pick up from the northwest later in the evening, gusting up to 50 km/h, bringing a cooler and drier feel as temperatures dip to a low of 16°C overnight.
Monday, August 19th brings a much-needed break from the rain. While the day will start cloudy, the sun should peek through by the afternoon. Winds from the north will remain strong, keeping temperatures cooler with a high of 21°C. Monday night will be clear and crisp, with the mercury falling to 13°C.
The week ahead looks promising with plenty of sunshine expected from Tuesday through Thursday, with highs around 23°C.
Safety Tips: With the risk of localized flooding, it’s crucial to stay safe. Avoid driving through flooded areas, as even shallow water can be dangerous. Steer clear of washouts near rivers, creeks, and culverts, and keep an eye on children and pets near water bodies. For those living in flood-prone areas, consider moving valuables to higher ground.
Historical Note: Toronto’s weather on August 18th has been record-breaking before. However, today’s rainfall might just be the wettest in recent years. The city has seen its share of rain on this day, but with such heavy, concentrated downpours, it’s a day that will be remembered.
Wardrobe Tip: Waterproof everything—boots, jackets, and even bags. And if you’re heading out, make sure your umbrella is sturdy enough to withstand some gusty winds.
Weather Trivia: Toronto is no stranger to intense summer rains. The city has experienced flash floods multiple times in its history, often due to similar storm systems that dump large amounts of rain in short periods.
