Today's heavy rainfall has caused flooding in some areas of the region, and water levels at local rivers and watercourses are high and fast flowing, with freezing rain forecast tonight to create more weather havoc.
The Town of Newmarket is advising residents to keep clear of all bodies of water, including the Holland River and Fairy Lake.
Roads were closed due to flooding on Old Homestead between the Queensway North and Woodbine Avenue in Georgina, and York Regional Police were warning residents to avoid the river at the dead-end area of Broda Drive and Highway 27.
Significant flooding has also closed the 9th Line between Donald Cousens Parkway and 16th Avenue in Markham.
The Town of Innisfil has been responding to isolated flooding all day and is asking the public to exercise caution around the following locations: Belle Aire Beach Road and Maple Road area (road closure in effect); Buchanan Street (road closure in effect); Gilford Road, east of Highway 11; sections of Highway 89 and 20th Sideroad; and sections of the 13th Line.
Hydro crews in Alcona are currently dealing with a large-scale power outage.
A moisture-laden low from Texas will continue to create heavy rainfall throughout southern and eastern Ontario tonight, according to Environment Canada.
Total rainfall amounts of 50 to 70 mm are anticipated by this evening, with locally higher amounts possible from isolated thunderstorms.
Rain is expected to change to freezing rain tonight as temperatures dip near the zero-degree mark. A freezing rain warning remains in effect.
Tips to deal with weather-related emergencies:
- If you have a power outage, contact Newmarket Hydro at 905-895-2309, view its power outage map for more information or check Twitter @NTPowerNews
- If your basement floods, do not use toilets or sinks as it can cause more water to flow into your basement if a sewer is backed up. Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report property damaged due to flooding. If required, your insurance company will contact the Town for further action.
- If you see a fallen or broken power line, stay at least 10 metres away. Call 911 and ensure no other bystanders move within 10 metres of the line.
- For up-to-date recreation program cancellations, visit newmarket.ca/cancellations or call the Recreation and Culture PLAY line at 1-877-752-9936.
- Have emergency supplies — including water, non-perishable foods, flashlights and a first-aid kit — that will last for 72 hours. View the Central York Fire Services website for a full list of items to include in an emergency kit.
- To report municipal emergencies such as tree or branches that have fallen and are blocking the road, or road or trail flooding, call 905-895-5193 and press 3 to reach after-hours customer service staff. For all other emergencies, call 911.
