Highlights:

• Rainfall Warning in effect due to the possibility of up to 35 mm of rain tonight through Saturday
• Ponding and localized flooding is possible
• Local watercourses will rise and some could spill their banks.

Message:

There is currently a Rainfall Warning in effect from Environment and Climate Change Canada due to the possibility of significant rainfall amounts. Periods of rain will continue through Saturday and could become heavy at times. Total rainfall amounts of 20 to 35 mm are expected before coming to an end Saturday evening. Temperatures are expected to remain above freezing this entire period and melting snow will add more water to the rain in the forecast.

The amount of rainfall in the forecast is significant for this time of the year. The heavy rains could lead to ponding and localized flooding in low lying areas. The rain and melting snow will cause water levels to rise on our smaller local watercourses. Accumulated ice and snow in the watercourses could block drainage leading to even higher water levels. Some of our smaller local watercourses could spill their banks into adjacent natural floodplain areas.

It is possible that McGregor Creek in Chatham could rise enough that the LTVCA would have to operate the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel and is prepared to do so if necessary.

At this time, it is not expected that the Thames River will rise up enough to get into the adjacent river flats.

People should take caution and avoid the river, ditches, and streams. The combination of slippery banks and fast-moving cold 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 January 2nd, 2023.

Message Contact: Jason Wintermute ([email protected]) or Jason Homewood ([email protected])