Heavy rains pound Toronto, causing flooding on major roadways

"A persistent severe thunderstorm" dropped heavy rain over Toronto Wednesday evening, causing some flooding along some major roadways.

Environment Canada put the City of Toronto under a severe thunderstorm warning around the dinner hour ahead of rainfall that at times was heavy. Just before 8 p.m., the federal agency said it was tracking "a persistent severe thunderstorm" over parts of the downtown core that was responsible for as much as 50 mm of rain falling in some areas.

Naturally, Torontonians took to social media to share images of the flooding.

By 8:30 p.m., the severe weather had moved out of the area.

Toronto police reported flooding at Lower Simcoe Street and Front Street West, as well as in a building at Lake Shore Boulevard West and York Street.

Flooding was also reported in the Beaches area and one resident found a creative way of getting around.

The federal agency had warned earlier of strong wind gusts, hail and heavy rain. In the end, Toronto Fire reported receiving numerous calls for flooding, particularly in the Beaches neighbourhood.

At the time the storm warning was first issued at 6:15 p.m., the storm cluster was over the eastern part of the city and moving south.

The agency noted that heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. The agency also warned drivers to slow down while driving through heavy rain and to watch for tail lights and be prepared to stop.

Environment Canada lifted the severe thunderstorm warning for Toronto at 8:20 p.m.