Toronto recovers after '100-year storm' floods homes, cuts power

Toronto is returning to normalcy after a severe thunderstorm, described by officials as a '100-year storm,' lashed the city with torrential rain and hail on Wednesday night.

The intense downpour dumped approximately 150 mm of rain in just a few hours, more than double the city's average rainfall for the entire month of August. The sudden deluge overwhelmed infrastructure, leading to widespread flooding of homes and streets. The Don River surged past its banks, forcing the closure of the Don Valley Parkway, while fallen power lines left thousands of residents without electricity. Subway and island ferry services were also temporarily suspended.

By Thursday morning, the sun had returned and cleanup operations were underway. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow confirmed that the storm had passed, stating that city teams were prepared and coordinated. She assured residents that work would continue until every road is clear and power is restored to all homes. Approximately 90 percent of households had their electricity back by morning, and the Don Valley Parkway had been reopened.

City manager Paul Johnson explained that the volume of rainfall met the city's definition of a '100-year storm.' He noted that flood mitigation improvements made after a similar event in 2005 had been effective, with the Don River absorbing the brunt of the impact. While some sewage systems and pools remain affected, Johnson stated that the city's services and operations are largely back to normal.

Residents affected by flooding or other storm-related issues have been urged to contact the city's 311 helpline for assistance. The Canadian National Exhibition has also reopened, and transit and city-run summer camps are operating on their regular schedules.