Dark clouds loomed over downtown Hamilton late Wednesday morning, unleashing a heavy downpour. Environment Canada issued a severe thunderstorm warning at approximately 10:45 a.m., coinciding with the onset of the rain. By mid-afternoon, the warning was downgraded to a thunderstorm watch, but the rain continued, with a 70 percent chance of afternoon showers and the risk of thunderstorms extending into the evening.
“Meteorologists are tracking a severe thunderstorm capable of producing very strong wind gusts, up to nickel-sized hail, and heavy rain,” the weather agency stated. Earlier in the day, the agency had noted wind gusts could reach up to 50 km/h.
The torrential rainfall was expected to release up to 50 mm of rain within an hour, accompanied by wind gusts reaching up to 90 km/h. The agency noted that the risk of thunderstorms would persist into the early evening. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Environment Canada warned that large hail could damage property and cause injury, while strong wind gusts could displace objects, damage weak structures, break tree branches, and overturn large vehicles.
Emergency Management Ontario has urged residents to take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches. The combination of severe weather elements is a significant concern for residents and authorities alike, highlighting the importance of staying informed and prepared.
The Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA) issued an urgent flood watch in response to the severe weather forecast. Water resources engineer Jonathan Bastien stated in a news release that water levels and flows in all area watercourses are expected to increase significantly. “Localized watercourse flooding of low-lying areas that typically flood during higher water levels is expected,” Bastien noted. “In addition, there is some potential for significant watercourse flooding if strong thunderstorms occur.”
Bastien explained that the Hamilton area could receive up to 30 mm of rain, with an additional 10 to 25 mm if thunderstorms occur. Current water levels and flows in Spencer Creek watercourses are already elevated and near thresholds for significant water safety concerns. In other watercourses, water levels are near baseflow conditions. Despite the high-water warning, Bastien assured that there are currently no significant watercourse flooding concerns.
The HCA’s flood watch will remain in effect until Friday when it will either be updated or cancelled. Residents are advised to exercise caution near all water bodies and structures such as bridges, culverts, and dams during this time. The authority emphasized the importance of being aware of potential flooding and taking necessary precautions to ensure personal safety.
This severe weather event adds to what has already been one of the wettest Julys in recent memory for Hamilton. Following downpours on July 15 and 16, Hamilton has already surpassed its average monthly rainfall for June of 95.5 mm, based on figures from 1991 to 2020, with a total of 115.9 mm, not including today’s downpour. The continued rainfall has heightened concerns about the potential for flooding and other weather-related hazards in the area.
As the rain fell heavily in downtown Hamilton, authorities continued to monitor the situation closely. The community has been urged to stay indoors whenever possible, avoid unnecessary travel, and keep an eye on local weather updates. The collective efforts of residents, emergency services, and weather authorities aim to mitigate the impact of the severe weather and ensure the safety of all those in the affected areas.
The severe thunderstorm and associated risks have brought the community together, highlighting the importance of preparedness and awareness in the face of extreme weather. Hamilton’s response to the ongoing weather challenges demonstrates the resilience and cooperation of its residents, as they navigate through this particularly wet and stormy July.
