Special weather statement issued for Hamilton [Video]

While a “potent” spring storm is on the horizon for Toronto, heavy rainfall is already forecast to pour down west of the city – and will do so until the weekend.

Environment Canada issued a special weather statement for significant rainfall in Hamilton, with 25 to 45 millimetres of rain expected. The stormy conditions are expected to start overnight on Wednesday and carry on through Saturday morning.

The heaviest rainfall is expected to dampen the city Thursday evening, with thunderstorms forecast in some areas. On top of the rain, strong gusts of wind – up to 80 km/h – are forecast Friday night. The weather agency notes the rain may be mixed with snow Friday night.

Toronto, however, saw mainly sunny skies in the afternoon and a high of 17 C, about seven degrees warmer than the average daytime high for April 10.

“But clouds once again invade this evening in advance …