Highlights:

• Rainfall Warning issued by Environment Canada.
• Thunderstorms passed through the region today dropping 25 to 50 mm over much of the lower Thames watershed.
• Some localized areas saw higher amounts.
• Areas of ponding, standing water and localized flooding could be seen around the watershed.
• Smaller watercourses will rise and some could spill their banks into adjacent low-lying areas.
• McGregor Creek Diversion Channel expected to be closed this evening

Message:

Earlier today Environment Canada issued a Rainfall Warning covering the lower Thames River watershed. The ground was already wet throughout the region due to rainfall over the last few days, including some thunderstorm activity yesterday. The thunderstorms passing through the region today have dropped 25 to 50 mm over much of the lower Thames River watershed. Some localized areas have seen higher amounts due to the thunderstorms. Forecasts suggest the rain has now left the area.

The amount of rain that has fallen today could create ponding, areas of standing water and localized flooding. Smaller watercourses, stream and ditches, are rising and some could spill their banks into adjacent low-lying areas.

Over the McGregor Creek watershed in Chatham-Kent, it appears that the thunderstorms passing through the region late this afternoon dropped more rain than was anticipated, and this rain was not picked up by the rain gauge network. The timing of this rain, together with the rain from this morning and that from yesterday’s thunderstorms, will be enough to require the operation of the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel. Flows in the creek are rising rapidly and the Diversion Channel is expected to be operating this evening. Water levels on the creek should be expected to remain elevated into Thursday.

The Thames River itself should be expected to rise somewhat in response to the rain. However, it is not expected to rise up enough to have to be concerned with the rising water levels or water in the overbanks. Flooding from the river is not expected at this time.

People should pay attention around waterways and avoid the river as well as ditches and streams. The combination of slippery banks and fast-flowing water can be dangerous. Standing water can present its own unseen hazards. Children and animals 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 6:00 p.m. August 8th, 2024.

Contact: Jason Wintermute ([email protected])