Safety and preparation: heavy rain possibly heading to Mississauga

Mississauga could see heavy rain this weekend as the remnants of Hurricane Debby move into southern Ontario.

There is 25-50 mm of rainfall forecasted for the city this weekend, and Mississauga is now under a special weather statement. As with any weather patterns, the storm’s path may shift. The weather can be unpredictable and being prepared is important. Heavy rain can cause pooling, overflowing rivers and runoffs, and flooding. It can also cause traffic disruptions, road closures, flooding, drainage and sewer problems, which may result in evacuations, power outages, supply shortages, infrastructure damage and debris.

Think ahead – keep your property safe

• Clear and secure outdoor items like patio furniture, BBQs and gardening materials. Tie-down garbage cans and other outdoor objects or bring them inside.
• Ensure eavestroughs and downspouts are clear.
• Disconnect downspouts from underground connections to redirect water away from your home’s foundation so that it flows into storm drains or onto your lawn or garden where it can be absorbed. Ensure disconnected downspouts are at least 2 metres (6 feet) from your home’s foundation or other structures.
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall or cause injury or damage.
• Keep storm drains (the square grates on the road) clear of litter and debris. Report blocked storm drains to 311.
• View Mississauga’s Residential Guide to Flooding Prevention toolkit to learn how to protect your home from flooding.
• Prepare your home to avoid basement flooding.

Staying safe

Remember to monitor Environment Canada for weather warnings and watches in Mississauga. Avoid dialling 911 unless you’re in immediate danger or require assistance with rescue or evacuation.

• During a storm, seek shelter indoors where possible.
• Stay away from windows and doors during heavy rain/strong winds.
• Heavy rain can overwhelm waterways like creeks, rivers, ponds and lakes. Stay away from waterways, as water levels can rise quickly.
• Heavy rain can impact roadways. Plan ahead, use traffic apps and avoid roads that may be closed due to rising water levels.
  • Avoid driving, if possible, especially in poor visibility. If you must drive, ensure that your full lighting system is turned on to improve visibility. If needed, park and wait until the rain has slowed down.
  • Avoid roadway underpasses, drainage ditches, low-lying areas and areas where water collects, as they can unexpectedly flood or overflow.
  • Do not try to drive across a flooded road. The water may be deeper and stronger than it appears. It may contain debris, sharp or dangerous objects, potholes or electrical wires.
  • Road flooding can happen. Vehicles can become unstable or even swept away if caught up in fast-flowing or pooling flood waters.
• Stay away from power lines or electrical wires.

Reporting unsafe conditions

• Report safety hazards like any fallen trees or weather-related issues such as drainage or flooding, call 311.
  • 311 may receive a large number of weather-related calls, which may result in longer wait times than usual. We appreciate your patience as we process the calls.
• Report power outages or electrical hazards to Alectra.

For updates on City-related weather concerns or issues, follow us on X or on Facebook. Learn more about seasonal storms in Mississauga.

Tags

• Public Safety
• Stormwater