Highlights:

• Rainfall Warning has been issued by Environment Canada
• Forecasts calling for 30 to 60 mm total rainfall this afternoon through Monday evening.
• Risk of localized flooding throughout the watershed, especially in low lying areas.
• Smaller local watercourses could rise and spill their banks.

Message:

A Rainfall Warning has been issued by Environment Canada. Rain is expected to begin this afternoon and last through into Monday evening. Total rainfall during this period is predicted to be between 30 and 60 mm. Rains are expected to be heaviest overnight tonight.

Recent rains have kept the ground wet and more water could run off into local watercourses than expected. Localized flooding and ponding, especially in low lying areas should be expected. Smaller local watercourses should be expected to rise and by early Monday some could spill their banks into low-lying floodplain areas. Given the predicted rainfall amounts, the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority will be preparing to operate the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel to prevent flooding in the south end of the city of Chatham. Flooding along the Thames River itself is not predicted at this time. However, high water levels on Lake St. Clair are still impacting downstream areas of the river and on Monday the river could rise up in Chatham enough to flood over the sidewalk along the river in the downtown.

Residents are advised to check their properties for potential drainages issue and to clear catch basins and storm sewer inlets of leaves and other debris in order to help reduce flooding.

People should take extra caution and avoid the river, ditches, and streams. The combination of slippery banks, and fast moving 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

This message will be in effect until October 27, 2021.

Message Contact: Jason Wintermute ([email protected])