Canada: Adverse weather forecast across eastern Ontario and southern Quebec through at least April 13

Severe weather is forecast across parts of eastern and southern Ontario and southern and southwestern Quebec through at least April 13. The frozen ground in Ontario is less able to absorb rainfall, and flooding is possible in areas where heavy rainfall occurs. The rain will promote the melting of the remaining snow cover in Quebec.

As of late April 10, Environment Canada has issued the following warnings:

• Red rainfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): For parts of eastern Ontario, rainfall of 3-6 cm (1.2-2 inches) is forecast through the evening of April 12. Far northeastern Ontario, rainfall of 2.5-3.5 cm (1-1.4 inches) is forecast through early April 13 before transitioning to snowfall of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) through late April 13. southwestern Quebec; rainfall of 3-6 cm (1.2-2 inches) is forecast through the evening of April 12 before temperatures drop April 13, with the rain changing to snow. In south-central Quebec, intermittent rain with totals of 2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 inches) is forecast through April 13. In Southeastern Quebec, intermittent rain with totals of 3-4 cm (1.2-1.6 inches) is forecast through April 13.

• Grey special weather statements for rainfall: Far southern Ontario through early April 13.

Officials may update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

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 may temporarily close low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather could cause 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 will likely occur in flood- or tornado-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites.