Environment Canada issues rainfall warning for Kingston and area

Advising of the potential of 40 to 80 mm of rainfall in the coming days, Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning for the Kingston area.

The rain is expected to begin on the morning or early afternoon of Wednesday, Jul. 10, 2024, Environment Canada says, noting that “rainfall with embedded torrential downpours” is expected. The rain is expected to last into Thursday, Jul. 11, 2024, with the potential for the aforementioned rainfall totals to be exceeded, according to the national weather agency. The warning points to “torrential downpours giving rainfall rates of 20 to 40 mm per hour at times” as a potential hazard, which could result in flash flooding.

“Heavy rainfall associated with the remnants of Hurricane Beryl will affect portions of eastern Ontario Wednesday into Thursday. Although confidence in the exact track of the weather system remains somewhat uncertain, these type of systems in the past have given very high rainfall rates in torrential downpours,” the warning states.

Environment Canada notes that rainfall amounts are likely to be “highly variable across the region, and some areas may receive in excess of 80 mm, particularly for areas close to the St. Lawrence River. Conditions should improve Thursday.”

“Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible,” the warning continues, advising that, if visibility is reduced while driving, motorists should slow down, watch for taillights ahead, and be prepared to stop.

The rainfall warning is in effect for Kingston, Odessa, and Frontenac Islands, however, other such warnings are expected to be issued for other areas in the region.

To monitor the coming rain, visit the Environment Canada website.