Fog that may result in “near-zero visibility” is expected to blanket much of the Greater Toronto Area, warns Environment Canada, as heavy rain hits the region. Just before 8 p.m., the national weather agency issued a yellow advisory – fog for Burlington – Oakville, Caledon, City of Toronto, Halton Hills – Milton, Mississauga – Brampton, Newmarket - Georgina - Northern York Region, Pickering - Oshawa - Southern Durham Region, Uxbridge - Beaverton - Northern Durham Region, and Vaughan - Richmond Hill – Markham. “Locally dense fog will persist into Tuesday morning. Be prepared for areas of near-zero visibility and allow extra time to reach your destination,” it said. Special weather statement also in effect Late Monday afternoon, a special weather statement was issued for the City of Toronto, Newmarket - Georgina - Northern York Region, Pickering - Oshawa - Southern Durham Region, Uxbridge - Beaverton - Northern Durham Region, and Vaughan - Richmond Hill – Markham, with showers and embedded thunderstorms forecasted for Monday night and ending Tuesday morning. Local rainfall amounts of 20 to 40 mm, possibly exceeding 40 mm especially in areas that receive thunderstorms, could be seen in these areas, said Environment Canada. Rainfall warnings may also be issued, it said, advising of water that “will likely pool on roads and in low-lying areas.” People are being urged to consult their local Conservation Authority or Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources office for more information about flooding. “Have the umbrella handy. It’s going to be a very unsettled start to the work week,” CP24 Meteorologist Bill Coulter said on Monday. “Showers and storms will light up the sky through the daylight hours as a warm front invades from the west.” Flood watch issued by TRCA The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) has issued a flood watch for the GTA, warning that river and stream water levels are currently high and the ground is already “very wet.” “Due to the total rainfall already received and expected rivers in TRCA’s jurisdiction are likely to rise well above normal water levels, with stronger and faster flows, with the possibility of overflowing,” the watch read. “Heavy rain from thunderstorms in a short time could cause flash flooding and water to pool or collect in flood plains and low-lying areas that do not drain well. All TRCA shorelines, rivers, and streams are dangerous right now. Water flows faster and higher, and water level conditions can change fast.” The agency is warning people to avoid rivers, streams, and shorelines due to the dangerous conditions. Beautiful forecast on tap for long weekend More rain is expected on Tuesday and Wednesday before wet weather clears out ahead of the long weekend. Toronto will see a high of 24 C on Monday, feeling closer to 29 when factoring in the humidity. “The muggy air will offer plenty of fuel for the possibility of more localized storms tomorrow afternoon,” Coulter said, adding that both Tuesday and Wednesday will feel “incredibly humid,” with humidex values in the upper 30s. While a few showers may pop on on Thursday, skies will clear and a dry long weekend is in the forecast. “It should be a great one weatherwise, with daytime highs in the mid-20s, plenty of sunshine, and little chance of rain from Friday to Sunday.”
