Canada: Severe weather forecast across parts of western Ontario July 2

Severe weather is forecast across parts of western Ontario July 2. Environment Canada has issued red rainfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) across Dryden-Vermilion Bay, Fort Frances-Emo-Rainy River, Ignace-English River, and Seine River Village-Mine Centre forecast districts. Heavy rainfall is forecast in the affected area during the morning before tapering off. Rainfall totals of up to 5 cm (2 inches) are possible across the affected area, with the heaviest rainfall likely during thunderstorms. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas, and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

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 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows will likely render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel 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. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.