24 Aug 2023 | 10:17 AM UTC
Canada: Adverse weather forecast to continue across parts of far southern Ontario Aug. 24 /update 1
Severe weather forecast across parts of far southern Ontario, Canada, Aug. 24. Transport, business, and utility disruptions possible.
Event
Severe weather is forecast to continue over parts of far southern Ontario Aug. 24. Heavy downpours and storms impacted parts of the southwestern tip of the Ontario Peninsula through Aug. 23, causing flooding in Tilbury, Leamington, and other parts of the region. The storms have continued into early Aug. 24 and further rounds of storms are possible throughout the day. Storms may be accompanied by heavy rainfall, strong wind gusts, and large hail. Winds gusting up to 90 kph (56 mph) and rainfall totals from the rounds of thunderstorms of up to 10 cm (4 inches) are possible in parts of the affected area. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas, and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages. Authorities have warned people in the affected area to take cover if threatening weather approaches.
As of early Aug. 24, Environment Canada has issued a heavy rainfall warning and a severe thunderstorm watch for Windsor and surrounding areas on the southwestern tip of the Ontario Peninsula. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours, including possibly issuing tornado warnings.
The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather may trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions could occur in flood- or tornado-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites. Strong winds could also cause power outages.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
