Highlights:

• Rainfall Warning from Environment Canada still in effect for the Windsor-Essex region.
• The entire lower Thames watershed has seen significant rainfall ranging up to 125 mm.
• Many smaller watercourses have already responded to the heavy rains and have spilled their banks.
• More showers and thunderstorms predicted for this evening and overnight.

Message:

The Rainfall Warning issued by Environment Canada is still in effect for the Windsor-Essex Region. It notes that another round of heavy rain and thunderstorms is expected this evening and that local amounts of near 50 mm are possible. While the Warning does not mention nearby regions, some spillover into Chatham-Kent, Middlesex and Elgin Counties is possible as well, and forecasts are generally calling for an addition 15 to 30 mm of rain throughout the Lower Thames watershed.

Throughout yesterday and today, the Lower Thames watershed has seen significant rainfall. The eastern and western areas of the watershed have seen the most rain with some areas reporting up to 125 mm of rain. These heavy rains have already caused ponding and localized flooding in low areas. Many smaller watercourses have already responded and are either near bank-full conditions or have spilled their banks into adjacent floodplain areas. If additional rain appears this evening and overnight, the flooding situation could worsen.

Additional rainfall could lead to the LTVCA having to operate the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel to protect the south end of the city of Chatham. Officials will be watching the situation and are prepared to do so if necessary.

Downstream areas of the Thames River have responded to the rainfall and have risen. However, only the most low-lying of floodplain areas adjacent to the river are expected to be flooded.

People should take extra caution and avoid the river, watercourses, ditches, and streams. The combination of slippery banks, deep and fast-moving water can be dangerous. Standing water can also present its own unseen hazards. Children, pets and livestock should be kept away from the water.

Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update this advisory as necessary.

This message will be in effect until August 26th, 2023.

Message Contact: Jason Wintermute ([email protected])