Heavy rain expected in Mississauga starting Wednesday

Starting this afternoon, heavy rain is expected to create wet and slippery road and sidewalks. Environment Canada has issued both rainfall and freezing rain warnings  for Mississauga, anticipating rain totals of 30 to 50 millimetres in some areas.

Precipitation is expected to continue from Wednesday afternoon into Thursday morning. Given the unpredictable nature of this weather system, it is important to be prepared.

Effects of heavy rain

Heavy rain can cause pooling, overflowing rivers, runoffs and flooding. This can result in traffic disruptions, road closures, flooding, drainage and sewer problems, which may result in evacuations, power outages, supply shortages, infrastructure damage and debris.

City crews are actively monitoring road conditions and are working to clear road debris and storm drains. Residents are also asked, where safe to do so safely, to clear storm drains (the square grates on streets) to help prevent flooding and allow for proper water drainage. Report blocked storm drains to 311.

Safety measures

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

Here are some safety tips to remember:

• Charge your cellphone, keep a flashlight handy and review emergency preparedness tips.
• Seek shelter indoors where possible.
• Stay away from windows and doors during heavy rain and strong winds.
• Avoid waterways like creeks, rivers, ponds and lakes, as water levels can rise quickly.
• Stay away from power lines or downed electrical wires.
• Plan ahead, use traffic apps and avoid roads that may be closed because of flooding.
  • 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.
• Secure outdoor items such as patio furniture, BBQs, gardening materials, garbage cans and other outdoor objects, either by tying them down or bring them inside.
• Ensure eavestroughs and downspouts are clear and redirect downspouts away from your home’s foundation to prevent water from accumulating. Ensure disconnected downspouts are at least two metres (six feet) from your home’s foundation or other structures.
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall or cause injury or damage.
• Report safety hazards like any fallen trees or weather-related issues such as drainage or flooding, call 311.
• Report any downed trees, blocked roadways/sidewalks or safety hazards to 311.
• Report power outages in Mississauga to Alectra at 1-833-ALECTRA
  (1-833-253-2872) or via X @alectranews.

Please continue to monitor the City of Mississauga Newsroom for updates around this evolving weather event. Check the weather on the Weather Network or the WeatherCAN app from Environment Canada for details on weather conditions.

For information and updates about weather impacts, including potential closures or cancelled City programming, follow @citymississauga @mississaugalib @saugaparksrec @SaugaCulture. Please also visit the MiWay Service Updates page  throughout the coming days for information on route delays.

Learn more about seasonal storms in Mississauga.

Tags

• Public Safety
• Weather Conditions and Warnings