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What caused the recent flooding in Toronto basements during the storm?

On July 16th 2024, Greater Toronto experienced heavy rainfall totaling 100mm, with rates reaching 40mm per hour . This event had a significant impact on the city, leading to the shutdown of several highways and leaving approximately 167,000 customers without electricity. The city received over 700 calls related to basement flooding in the Toronto area. Major Highway were shut down including DVP and Gardener expressway. TTC subway was impacted. Union station was covered with water.

Everest Plumbing Jul 23, 2024
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In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind these basement floods and explore the factors contributing to this phenomenon in Toronto flood.

  • Although people had sump pump in the house, but they still experience flooded basement. As being responsible Toronto Plumber, we were succeeding help more than 50+ customer to resolve their sump pump issue to keep basement safe. Fun fact with his storm was house with sump pump experience more flood than the house without of sump pump.
  • During a recent period of heavy rainfall, Toronto experienced precipitation rates of up to 40mm/h. Typically, households in Toronto are equipped with sump pumps that discharge through a 1-½” outlet into a pit with a depth of 30 inches. This setup is usually sufficient to handle regular water drainage. However, due to unexpectedly high volumes of water collected from both groundwater and weeping tiles, the sump pit filled beyond its capacity, resulting in water overflowing into the basement. Though the sump pump was running but we can call it overall system fails.
  • In number of households, sump pump failure was another major issue for basement flooded. As water was entering into pit in unexpected amount. And continuously run of pump for 4-8hr cause a sump pump fail in number of households in Toronto. Number of people experience issue with sump pump as debris was stuck on debris pipe.
  • Some people had sump pumps that were not in working condition when they needed them most during the heavy rainfall, resulting in flooded basements that they had not anticipated. The hydro outage was another critical factor contributing to the inoperability of sump pumps. Despite having sump pumps installed in their homes, many households were unable to operate them due to the electricity outage.
flooded basement emergency plumbing issues in toronto
Flooded Basement in Toronto

What actions can be taken if such a disaster recurs in the future?

There is not such way to win against the nature, but there are few preventive tips to keep house and life safe.

  • Battery backup sump pump system:
    A sump pump with a battery backup can kick in to assist when the main sump pump fails during a power outage. This addition can be integrated into an existing sump pump system. It not only serves as a backup but also provides alerts when there is an increase in water level in the pit or if the main sump pump fails. This feature operates digitally, enhancing monitoring and response capabilities during flooding events.
  • Duplex system:
    Duplex system usually used in commercial purpose; duplex system can help to in such case . These pumps work together to provide redundancy and additional pumping capacity during heavy rainfall. This system is little bit expensive as compared to regular pump system.
  • Sump pump maintenance:
    Regularly check and test your sump pump to ensure it functions properly. Clear debris from the sump pump pit so it can operate at full capacity when necessary. If you need assistance with maintaining your sump pump and its pit, feel free to give us a call at 416-383-7378. We provide service throughout the Greater Toronto Area and can help you out.
  • Clearing outside catch basin and  Trench drain :
    Many people neglect to clean leaves and debris near or inside their homes. You can easily clear these leaves if they are covered with soft debris, or you can contact the City of Toronto at 311 for assistance. It’s beneficial to clear mud and debris from trench drains outside your house to prevent water blockages during disasters.
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While there are limitations to what we can do, following these simple tips can help prevent or mitigate basement flooding. Always stay informed by following weather advisories from the city. The City of Toronto   provides detailed reports on incidents and guidelines on what to do during such events. These resources can assist in keeping your basement safe during adverse weather conditions.

Please feel free to contact us at 416-383-7378 or email info@everestplumbing.ca if you have any questions about your sump pump. We are always happy to assist with sump pump maintenance, repairs, installations, and guidance.

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