Flash flooding in Toronto on Thursday evening led to several rescues and power outages across the city.
The heavy rain that hit the city caused water levels to rise rapidly, resulting in flooded streets and stranded vehicles. Emergency services were inundated with calls for help as people found themselves trapped in their cars or homes.
Several rescues were carried out by Toronto Fire Services, with crews using boats to reach those stranded in their vehicles. In one instance, a woman and her dog were rescued from a flooded underpass in the city’s west end.
The flooding also caused power outages in various parts of the city, with Toronto Hydro reporting that over 30,000 customers were without power at the height of the storm. Crews worked through the night to restore power to affected areas, but some residents were left in the dark for several hours.
The flash flooding serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for extreme weather events. Residents are advised to stay indoors during heavy rainfall, avoid driving through flooded areas, and have an emergency kit on hand in case of power outages.
City officials are also urging residents to clear their gutters and downspouts to prevent water from pooling around their homes. As climate change continues to bring more frequent and intense storms, it is crucial for individuals and communities to be proactive in mitigating the impact of extreme weather events.
While the worst of the flooding has subsided, cleanup efforts are still underway in Toronto. The city is working to clear debris from streets and repair any damage caused by the storm.
Overall, the flash flooding in Toronto serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and destructive nature of extreme weather events. It is essential for residents to stay informed, be prepared, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during such events.
