Strong Winds and Unseasonably Warm Weather Hit Toronto

A special weather statement has been issued for Toronto as the city braces for strong winds reaching up to 90 km/h on March 15, 2024. The forecast indicates that showers, accompanied by a risk of thunderstorms, will begin in the morning, followed by a cold front expected to advance through the region in the afternoon. This system could produce another surge of strong winds, with gusts potentially reaching between 80 to 90 km/h.

Residents can expect the winds to subside later in the afternoon or early evening, moving from west to east across the city. In addition to the winds, Toronto is experiencing unseasonably warm temperatures, with Environment Canada predicting a high of 12°C. This temperature is approximately 14 degrees above the seasonal average for this time of year.

Watershed Conditions and Safety Warnings

The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) has issued a watershed conditions statement, highlighting the potential for rapidly changing water levels in the coming days. This alert is prompted by the combination of expected rainfall and melting snow. While flooding is not anticipated in TRCA watersheds, the agency cautions that all rivers may experience elevated levels and faster flows over the next two to three days.

According to the TRCA, “Due to the weather forecast, all rivers and streams in the TRCA’s jurisdiction should be considered dangerous, as this weather system is expected to cause rapidly changing water levels, faster and stronger flows, unstable riverbanks, and unsafe ice conditions.” Residents are strongly advised to avoid rivers and streams, as well as slippery banks around bodies of water.

The ground in TRCA watersheds remains frozen, preventing rain and melted snow from being absorbed into the soil. Consequently, this leads to increased runoff into rivers, which may result in water pooling in flood plains and low-lying areas with poor drainage. Additionally, the presence of ice and cold water temperatures in rivers poses significant risks, including a higher chance of falling due to icy and slippery riverbanks. The TRCA warns that where rivers are covered in ice and snow, the forecasted warm weather and rain could lead to ice breaking up and moving downstream, potentially causing ice jams.

As conditions develop, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to stay informed and exercise caution in the face of these weather changes. Residents are encouraged to visit local weather hubs for updates and full forecasts.