Toronto flooding

Toronto has been experiencing unprecedented levels of flooding in recent years. In 2018, the city was hit by a series of storms that caused widespread damage and displacement. And just last month, another major storm left parts of the city underwater.

What's causing the flooding?

There are a number of factors that are contributing to the flooding in Toronto. One is the city's aging infrastructure. Many of the city's sewers and drains are outdated and can't handle the increased volume of water that's coming from storms.

Another factor is climate change. As the planet warms, we're seeing more extreme weather events, including more intense storms. This is putting a strain on Toronto's infrastructure, which is already struggling to cope with the current level of rainfall.

What are the consequences of the flooding?

The flooding in Toronto has had a devastating impact on the city. It has caused widespread damage to homes and businesses, and it has also led to the displacement of thousands of people.

• In 2018, the flooding caused an estimated $1 billion in damage.
• More than 100,000 people were forced to leave their homes.
• Many businesses were forced to close, leading to job losses.

What's being done to address the flooding?

The City of Toronto is taking a number of steps to address the flooding problem. These include:

• Upgrading the city's infrastructure: The city is investing in new sewers and drains to help handle the increased volume of water from storms.
• Implementing green infrastructure: The city is also planting more trees and creating more green spaces. These measures can help to absorb rainwater and reduce the amount of runoff that flows into the sewers.
• Educating the public: The city is also working to educate the public about the importance of flood prevention. This includes teaching people how to protect their homes from flooding and how to prepare for a flood.

What can you do to help?

There are a number of things that you can do to help prevent flooding in Toronto. These include:

• Don't dump leaves and garbage in storm drains. This can block the drains and cause flooding.
• Disconnect your downspouts. This will help to direct rainwater away from your home and into the ground.
• Create a rain garden. A rain garden is a low-lying area that collects rainwater and allows it to soak into the ground. This can help to reduce the amount of runoff that flows into the sewers.
• Be prepared for a flood. Make sure you have a plan in place in case of a flood. This includes knowing where to go and what to do if you need to evacuate.

By working together, we can help to reduce the risk of flooding in Toronto and protect our city from future storms.