An Island Submerged - Photo Series by Pat O'rourke

For years, the Toronto Islands have been a summer hotspot and tourist attraction — couples coming to cottage for the weekend, families having BBQs and picnics, and children having the time of their lives on the Islands' Centreville amusement park. But this year was different — the Islands, once bustling with people, now barren, deserted, and submerged under water. For months the Toronto Islands have been closed due to excessive flooding, the worst flooding the city has seen in decades. 

While still closed, we decided to explore the state of the submerged islands. If you've been to the Islands in the past, you'd immediately sense the difference this time around . Besides the lack of people and friendly smiles, the Island itself has become a scene from a post-apocalyptic movie — abandoned picnic tables, boarded up shops, and a stadium and concert stage submerged under water.

Fortunately, the City of Toronto announced the Islands' reopening for the end of July 2017. Although the Islands are now almost back to the lively tourist destination it is known to be, we think there is something to be said for this photo series that documents a side to the Islands few were able experience. 

Featured below: Blue Bird Surf Trunks