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This Weekend's GTHA Storms Are a Preview of Your Next Insurance Bill

  Monday August 3, 2026 A tornado warning near Niagara, up to 50 mm of rain across the GTHA, and flood watches from Peel to Durham. It's a rough long weekend — and a live example of why your home insurance renewal keeps climbing. What Happened This Weekend Environment Canada issued a special weather statement for most of the GTHA on Sunday, warning of localized rainfall exceeding 50 mm. A tornado warning was briefly issued for the St. Catharines–Niagara Falls area before being lifted. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority and Credit Valley Conservation both issued flood outlook statements, warning that rivers and creeks could rise well above normal levels with a "higher potential for flooding." If this feels familiar, it's because it is. Canada's 2026 severe weather season started earlier and harder than usual — and insurers have already been telling shareholders about it for months. The storm soaking your basement window well this weekend is the same category...

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Black Friday shoppers pulling back on spending

 

 According to a survey by the National Retail Federation, Black Friday sales in the U.S. dropped by 28% compared to 2019, as shoppers avoided crowded stores and opted for online shopping instead.

Here ate the main reasons cited for this trend:

  • Online shopping surge: Online sales on Black Friday reached a record $9 billion, up 21.6% from last year, according to Adobe Analytics. Cyber Monday is expected to be the biggest online shopping day in U.S. history, with sales projected to reach $10.8 billion.
  • Pandemic impact: The coronavirus pandemic has changed consumer behavior and preferences, as people seek convenience, safety, and value. Many retailers have extended their sales period and offered curbside pickup or free delivery options to attract customers.
  • Holiday season outlook: Despite the lower turnout on Black Friday, the NRF predicts that overall holiday sales will increase by 3.6% to 5.2% over 2019, reaching between $755.3 billion and $766.7 billion. However, the uncertainty around the pandemic and the economy could affect consumer confidence and spending.

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