Wednesday, February 19, 2014

News Release - Weather alert issued for Toronto

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
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News Release

February 19, 2014 

Weather alert issued for Toronto 

Environment Canada is forecasting a weather system that may bring 30 to 40 mm of rainfall with possible thunderstorms to the Greater Toronto Area starting Thursday night through Friday morning. In addition, the rising temperature will melt some of the ice and snow currently on the ground. 

The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority has also issued a Flood Outlook Watershed Conditions Statement, warning that the forecasted rainfall amounts mixed with melting snow will result in higher than normal water levels and flows, and possible ice break-up in our rivers and streams, creating dangerous conditions. The possibility exists for flooding on roadways and in low-lying areas. The statement asks people to please stay away from rivers and streams and exercise caution around all bodies of water. For the most up-to-date weather information, visit Environment Canada’s website.

The City of Toronto encourages residents and businesses to take precautionary steps to protect their property and ensure their safety. 

The combination of melting snow and rain can lead to basement flooding. Here are some tips for residents:
- Keep melting snow and ice away from your foundation walls.
- Ensure your downspouts are not blocked and are draining properly.
- If it is safe to do so, clear debris from roadside catch basins - the square sewer grates on the road to help water enter the storm sewer.
- If your basement is at an immediate threat of flooding, prepare your basement by moving valuables to shelves or upper floors. Cleaners, paint and chemicals should also be taken off the floor so they do not further contaminate any floodwater that may get into your home.

If your basement has flooded: 
- Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report property damage caused by flooding.
- Do not enter a flooded basement, as you may be exposed to sewage or come in contact with water and electricity.
- Be mindful of your health and safety when cleaning up a flooded basement. Do not stand in flood water - call a professional for assistance.
- Call 311 immediately to report basement flooding. During extreme weather, call volumes will be high. Calls will be answered by the first available agent. 311 is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

More information is available at http://www.toronto.ca/basementflooding 

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visithttp://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

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Media contact: Ellen Leesti, Strategic Communications, 416-397-1403eleesti@toronto.ca  

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