Forecasters say a significant rainfall is headed for the Greater Toronto Area, followed by a helping of springtime snow.
Environment Canada issued a rainfall warning Wednesday afternoon for Toronto and most of southern Ontario.
In an update on Thursday, the agency said rainfall amounts in the 20-to-35-millimetre range are expected for Toronto and the surrounding area.
Cold, strong winds in the forecast for Thursday evening are expected to turn the rain into slushy snow. Wind gusts of up to 70 km/h could create blowing snow conditions.
The accumulation is not expected to be significant near Lake Ontario, but areas north of the city could receive up to 10 centimetres.
It’s the second time this week Environment Canada has issued a statement regarding heavy rains. The agency said Wednesday the ground is nearly saturated and “has little ability to absorb further rainfall.”
Due to the possibility of flooding in low-lying areas, Toronto and Region Conservation is asking the public to stay away from rivers and streams.
Environment Canada is also warning drivers to take precautions such as increasing their following distance and using their headlights in poor visibility.
The GTA will likely get a break from all the precipitation soon, with sun and double-digit temperatures in the forecast for Saturday and Sunday.