Toronto, GTA brace for heavy rain Monday

A special weather statement is in effect for Toronto and the GTA as southern Ontario braces for heavy rainstorms that will likely make Monday’s commute a messy one.

A special weather statement is in place for York-Durham, Halton-Peel, Waterloo-Wellington and Hamilton, among others. These surrounding areas can expect around 30 to 50 millimetres of rain in some spots.

Environment Canada says periods of rain beginning early Monday morning may create hazardous driving conditions. Total rainfall amounts of 25 to 40 millimetres are possible by Monday night.

Environment Canada says the rainfall is due to a low-pressure system forecast to track northeast across southern Ontario throughout the day on Monday.

“Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. If visibility is reduced while driving, turn on your lights and maintain a safe following distance. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible,” they said.

Winds will increase Sunday overnight in southern Ontario, where gusts could reach 30-50 km/h by Monday morning.

While we could get some relief from the rain on Wednesday, meteorologists caution parents and kids to prepare for a chilly week as temperatures drop in most parts of the province.

The rain could return by Friday into Saturday, with 10 millimetres of precipitation as an early prediction total for the weekend.