Residents in the Toronto area have been warned to exercise caution around all bodies of water as rain is predicted to fall across the Toronto area for the rest of the week.
Severe thunderstorms moved through southern Ontario for hours overnight, causing flash flooding in some areas of Toronto.
Torrential rain, hail, high winds and power outages plagued the city starting at 8:30 p.m., and a watershed conditions statement was issued an hour later by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.
The TRCA said 60 mm of rain fell in some areas of the city, causing bodies of water to rise. The TRCA warned residents of the Toronto area to exercise caution near water from Sunday night until Tuesday.
Rain was still falling across the Toronto area Monday morning, but Environment Canada predicted the precipitation would end by noon. The weather agency has predicted it will rain every day from Monday until Friday, adding to the risk of flooding.
Overnight, some vehicles were partially submerged in rainwater in the area of Woodbine and Steeles Avenues. Firefighters were called to help rescue residents from flooded cars and bus shelters, Toronto Fire Capt. Adrian Ratushniak said.
Several highway on- and off-ramps had to be closed due to flooding along Highway 404 on Sunday evening. At the height of the storm, drivers were urged by Ontario Provincial Police to stay off the roads, if possible.
Power outages follow storms
Toronto Fire was also called about flooded basements and people stuck in elevators due to power outages.
Approximately 700 customers were affected by power outages from Sheppard to Finch Avenues and from Don Mills Road to Victoria Park Avenue.
More than 4,000 Hydro One customers in the Grand Bend area remained without power on Monday after utility poles and trees were knocked down. Power is expected to be restored to all homes and businesses by 11 a.m.
