In a shocking turn of events, Toronto’s streets have been transformed into rivers as record-breaking rainfall from three massive storms inundated the city. The aftermath of this deluge has left drivers stranded on the major motorway, buildings flooded, and power outages affecting thousands.
According to Environment Canada, Toronto received nearly 100mm (4in) of rain on Tuesday, shattering the previous daily record set back in 1941. Images and videos circulating online showcase the extent of the damage, with cars nearly submerged and water cascading down the staircases of Union Station.
Toronto Hydro reported that over 167,000 customers were left without power, while flights were delayed or canceled at Billy Bishop Airport on the Toronto Islands. The Don Valley Parkway, a key motorway in the city, was completely blocked by floodwaters, forcing authorities to close Ontario Highway 410 as well.
Emergency crews have been hard at work rescuing stranded individuals, including one person who had to be saved from the roof of their car. Toronto’s fire service received numerous distress calls from people trapped in lifts due to power outages.
Meteorologists attributed the intense rainfall to a perfect storm of three successive weather systems. The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority issued warnings about the city’s vulnerability to flooding, especially in areas near shorelines, rivers, and streams.
Mayor Olivia Chow expressed frustration over the delayed closure of the flood-prone Don Valley Parkway and reassured residents that the city is committed to investing in clean-up efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future. The memories of Toronto’s costly July storm in 2013, which left hundreds of thousands without power and passengers stranded on a flooded train, loom large as the city navigates this latest crisis.
Overall, Toronto residents are grappling with the aftermath of this unprecedented flooding, as they come together to recover and rebuild in the face of nature’s fury.
