Highlights:

• Rainfall Warning issued by Environment Canada
• Rainfall totals of 50 to 60 mm are being predicted from this evening into Thursday morning.
• Potential thunderstorms could drop more in some areas.
• Local watercourses will rise and some could reach bank full conditions or spill their banks.
• LTVCA may need to operate the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel.

Message:

Environment Canada has issued a Rainfall Warning for the region. The Rainfall Warning is calling for 50 to 60 mm total rainfall from this evening through into Thursday morning, with the potential for thundershowers as well. With the addition of thundershowers, some areas could see 75 mm, with some forecasts suggesting even larger totals due to the thundershowers.

The amount of rain in the forecast is significant for this time of the year. The amount of rain should be expected to cause ponding and localized flooding in areas with poor drainage. Local ditches, creeks and streams should be expected to rise throughout the day Wednesday and some could reach bank full conditions or spill their banks. The LTVCA will be monitoring the situation to determine if it needs to operate the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel to protect the south end of the city of Chatham from flooding. Heavy rains associated with thunderstorms could also cause issues in urban areas.

Should the region receive rainfall totals around the lower end of the predicted range, flooding along the Thames River itself isn’t expected. If higher than expected rainfall totals come in across the region, some flooding along the river might be expected. Conservation Authority staff will be monitoring the situation and update this statement if necessary.

The rain in the forecast could have a greater impact in shoreline areas. Due to the high lake levels, rainwater is not draining properly from these areas. In addition, any water from upstream making its way downstream on local watercourses into these shoreline areas could further impact these areas.

In order to reduce nuisance flooding, residents should ensure that catch basins and other drainage areas are clear of debris.

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

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

This message will be in effect until September 24, 2021.

Message Contact: Jason Wintermute ([email protected])