Heavy rain and strong winds headed for Southern Ontario

A few regions, most likely those adjacent to the Lake Erie and Lake Ontario shorelines, could see rainfall approaching Environment Canada’s rainfall warning criterion of 50 mm within 24 hours.

There is potential for up to 40 mm of rain and strong winds gusting up to 70 km/hr beginning overnight.

The weather system is expected to end by Friday as it moves into Northern Quebec.

Meteorologists expect the region to be hit by a “shield of rain” once the strong fall storm reaches the Great Lakes on Tuesday night. The storm is expected to wind down late Wednesday or Thursday.

These winds may be strong enough to cause a few tree damage leading to local power outages, especially in areas where trees remain in partial to full leaf. “Water pooling on roads may result from heavy downpours or debris blocking drains”.

And it could get very windy.

The Hamilton Conservation Authority is advising of the possibility for localized flooding in low-lying areas within the watershed, as a result of anticipated rainfall on Wednesday. There’s also a chance of thunderstorms.

The City of London is reminding residents and businesses to be prepared and take precautions when travelling during the storm.

If your home has a backflow valve installed on the sewer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning to ensure that it is functioning properly.

The City of Burlington has begun preparing for this weather event, checking inlet and outlet structures and catch basins to ensure they are clear, said Cathy Robertson, director of road and parks maintenance, in a news release.

Make sure you have your umbrella with you everywhere you go tomorrow.

Clean your eaves troughs.

Stay away from areas known to flood.

City crews will be out clearing catch basins in preparation for the rain, McKinnon said.

On Tuesday, the forecast calls for a mix of sun and cloud with a high of 11 C with a UV index 3 or moderate. Expect about 5 to 10 mm.

She said it will be windy on Tuesday morning, with developing late in the evening and an east wind to 50 km/h. The expected low is 8 C.