Freezing rain is in store for the GTA. Here's what to expect this weekend
Environment Canada says freezing rain in Toronto is possible Friday night
A potentially messy storm could bring freezing rain to the Greater Toronto Area this weekend, but Toronto may be spared from the worst of the storm.
Environment Canada says ice buildup of three to five millimetres is possible in some parts of Ontario, which could increase the risk of power outages, slippery surfaces and broken tree branches in those areas.
However, where you are will determine what's actually falling and what sticks to the ground.
Here's what you can expect. CBC Toronto will be updating this story as we get more information about the weather event, so check back as you're planning your weekend.
Friday evening
The City of Toronto opened five emergency warming centres at 5 p.m. with the temperature expected to dip.
Rain that started in the late afternoon could turn into freezing rain Friday night as the temperature nears the freezing mark, according to Environment Canada.
CBC meteorologist Chris Potter said there is a chance of thunder.
Potter said ice is more likely to accumulate on trees, power lines and cars than on the ground, which isn't currently frozen.
Disclaimer: Freezing rain can be hard to predict
Storm chaser and meteorologist Mark Robinson said the most significant amount of freezing rain may happen from Huntsville through Peterborough and down toward Kingston.
But he also cautioned freezing rain can be difficult to predict.
"You need such exact meteorological conditions for that freezing rain to happen," he said in an interview with CBC Radio's Metro Morning on Friday. "If it's not perfect, you'll get a switchover to snow or pure rain."
"That's the big question right now: how much are we going to see?"
Robinson said people can prepare for potential power outages by stocking up on non-perishable foods and water.
Saturday morning
The ice storm is expected to transition into periods of rain showers as temperatures begin to rise around the GTA.
Saturday night
A second round of freezing rain is expected Saturday night into Sunday morning as temperatures cool below the freezing mark.
Potter said this band of weather is setting up to be stronger than what we see on Friday.
Rainfall amounts could create 'hazardous' conditions on GTA waterways
The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority has released a water safety statement that will be in effect until Monday night due to the amount of rain that's expected.
The conservation authority says widespread flooding is not anticipated, but the rainfall amounts mixed with melting ice and snow and partially frozen ground conditions will result in "higher-than-normal" water levels and flows, which could create potentially hazardous conditions on the area's waterways.
"All rivers and streams within the GTA should be considered hazardous," the conservation authority said in a news release on Friday.
Mississauga has been preparing 'all week' for storm, city official says
Mississauga has been preparing all week for potential freezing rain, said Helen Noehammer, the city's director of works operations and maintenance.
The city has topped up its salt supplies and made crews available to respond on the weekend if necessary, she said in an interview with Metro Morning on Friday.
She said they have also ensured the city's catch basins are clear of debris to prevent flooding on roads and that the storm water system is operating at capacity.
"We're ready to respond to whatever Mother Nature may throw at us this weekend," she said.
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With files from Rochelle Raveendran