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Scorch and Surge: Ontario Faces Sweltering Heat and Successive Storm Threats

Ontario is bracing for a stretch of intense weather as Environment Canada issues heat warnings across multiple regions, paired with a forecast of multi-day storm risks. Temperatures are expected to soar past 30°C, with humidex values pushing conditions into the high 30s and low 40s. The sweltering heat poses increased risks to vulnerable populations, including seniors, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Meteorologists warn that the heat won’t come alone. A line of unstable air sweeping across southern and central Ontario is expected to fuel daily thunderstorms through the weekend and into next week. These storms could bring heavy downpours, damaging winds, and isolated hail, further complicating the forecast. Officials are urging residents to take precautions: stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak hours, and check in on neighbours who may be at risk. Pet owners are also reminded to avoid walking animals during the hottest parts of the day. The co...
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Toronto’s Union Station Transforms into an ‘Indoor Waterfall’ Amid Severe Flooding

 

Toronto, Canada, experienced a deluge of heavy rainfall that turned streets into rivers and left hundreds of thousands without power. The downtown region and parts of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) were severely impacted by the storm. Among the striking visuals captured during this natural disaster was an unexpected sight at Union Station—an “indoor waterfall.”

The Scene at Union Station: Union Station, a bustling transportation hub, became an unlikely spectacle as water cascaded down its marble stairs. Videos and photos circulated on social media, showing the station’s grand interior transformed into a temporary waterfall. The scene served as a stark reminder of the devastating floods that hit Toronto back in 2013, prompting questions about the city’s preparedness for extreme weather events.

City Preparedness and Concerns: Despite having 11 years to address infrastructure vulnerabilities, Toronto faced similar flooding in familiar spots. Residents wondered why the city hadn’t taken more proactive measures to prevent such incidents. A city-based lawyer expressed frustration on social media, emphasizing the need for better sewer systems and safety precautions.

Environmental Factors: Toronto’s unique geography plays a role in its vulnerability to floods. Surrounded by the Greenbelt—a system of woods and wetlands—the city relies on natural absorption to manage excess water. However, recent decisions to open up these areas for development have limited their capacity to absorb rainfall effectively.

Traffic Disruptions: The floods wreaked havoc on Toronto’s transportation network. Major highways, including the Don Valley Parkway, were submerged, causing significant traffic disruptions. Lakeshore areas were also severely affected.

Conclusion: As Toronto grapples with the aftermath of this severe storm, the “indoor waterfall” at Union Station serves as a powerful visual reminder of the urgent need for better preparedness and sustainable solutions to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events.


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