Yesterday’s storm and heavy rains – and, yes, hail in some parts – forced the closure of several facilities across Durham while utility provider, Elexicon, reported power failures.
Elexicon Energy reported power outages at Kingston Road area in Pickering and Dunlop Street East in Whitby.
“Severe storm activity is expected across our service territory, including damaging winds, torrential rain and hail. This weather can lead to potential outages. Our crews and system control centre are standing by,” said an earlier Elexicon advisory.
It said the event is a reminder that having an emergency kit on hand can help keep households safe, comfortable, and connected. Learn more here on how to be prepared.
GO Trains & Bus
Metrolinx, the operator of GO Transit yesterday said as a result of weather conditions, some trips may be impacted.
“We’re reminding customers to please be cautious and mindful of their surroundings in and around parking lots, stations, and platform areas. Weather conditions can occasionally affect GO Transit service.
Region of Durham
The Region of Durham yesterday advised residents that due to inclement weather regional headquarters, Oshawa and Ajax in-person services closed at 3 pm on Wednesday, September 2). Residents could still access services by calling 311.
All regional services were scheduled to reopen again during regular business hours on Thursday, September 3.
Durham Region Health Department’s Oral Health Clinic at 200 John Street West, Oshawa, was closed for the rest of yesterday, September 2, due to inclement weather. The clinic will reopen on September 3 at 8:30 am.
City of Pickering
The City of Pickering notified residents of an increased potential for flooding within its river systems due to the risk of severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall over a short period. These conditions could result in rapidly rising water levels and localized flooding.
It said its Customer Care Centre and after-hours service may experience higher-than-normal call volumes during periods of inclement weather.
“If you see City of Pickering staff working in a flooded area, please give them the time and space needed to safely complete their work,” it said.
Town of Ajax
The Town of Ajax advised that the following trails are closed due to excessive flooding from last night’s storm.
- Miller’s Creek Trail from Williamson Road to Rossland Road
- Curtis Gate trail to Main Miller’s Creek Trail, bridge underwater
- Taunton Road West to Feint Drive
- Alden Square to main Miller’s Creek Trail, bridge underwater
The town apologized for the inconvenience.
City of Oshawa
The City of Oshawa announced the closure of Harmony Creek Trail from King Street East to Bond Street East.
It was closed yesterday until further notice due to flooding.
We apologize for any inconvenience this causes, said the city.
It asked residents to contact Service Oshawa at service@oshawa.ca.
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)
The OPP Highway Safety Division reported heavy rain and large hail throughout the the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
It said this caused considerable damage and flooded roads.
Providing safety tips, it said if you have to be out on the roads:
- Make sure you turn on your full headlighting system.
- Don’t put on your 4-way-flashing lights unless you are the hazard.
- Watch out for low-lying areas that could be flooded which could cause hydroplaning and loss of control.
It asked road users to stay safe and stay dry.
Municipality of Clarington
Even before yesterday’s storm, Clarington had begun to prepare for flooding, heat waves and other extreme weather.
From flooding and heat waves to wildfire smoke and snowstorms, extreme weather can affect how we live, work and spend time in our community. Whether it’s a game cancelled because fields are too wet, poor air quality keeping people indoors, property damage from high winds or ice storms, a flooded trail after heavy rain, or a power outage that disrupts daily routines, these experiences help tell the story of how extreme weather affects Clarington, said the municipality on Tuesday.
The Municipality of Clarington is developing a Climate Risk Assessment and Adaptation Plan to better understand local climate risks and identify actions that help the community prepare for future weather-related challenges. It has asked residents for input.