A thunderstorm that swept through Toronto overnight has left a trail of damage in its wake.
A section of GO Transit tracks on the Richmond Hill line was temporarily closed Thursday morning because of severe flooding that left the tracks submerged in water, making it a slower commute than usual for passengers. Commuters used alternate routes until the tracks re-opened at 7:25 p.m., but passengers are being asked to use other transit lines.
Meanwhile, York police shut down the intersection at Bowes Road and Rivermede Road in Vaughan after heavy rains left the area flooded and trapped three cars, with the water reaching up to the vehicle’s windows.
York Fire Department was called to the scene to help the trapped passengers out of their cars. The intersection reopened for the morning commute.
Lightning that rolled through Brampton is also believed to have caused a house fire in a townhouse complex.
A lightning strike is believed to be the cause of a Brampton townhouse fire. Residents of the Spadina Road home reported hearing a loud bang at 11:15 p.m., moments before the fire broke out. The residents managed to escape from the home, however the fire quickly spread to an adjacent townhouse.
Toronto Police reported some flooding close to the Bayview Avenue and Queen Street overnight on Wednesday, which caused the intersection to temporarily shut down. Toronto Fire reported some power outages overnight but didn’t respond to any severe storm-related emergencies.
Environment Canada is forecasting showers to continue throughout Thursday with a risk of thunderstorms. Thunderstorms are also forecast for Friday afternoon and evening.
