Weather forecasters are calling for a very wet weekend. Current forecasts are calling for anywhere from 20-40 mm of rainfall on Saturday and 20-35 mm on Sunday. There is also the possibility of thundershowers developing that could lead to local increases in rain. Areas to our north are expected to see a mix of freezing precipitation. The weather system is still a ways off and there is some uncertainty in its track, but it is expected be a large regional event.

Should the forecasted rainfall amounts appear, there will likely to be issues of localized flooding just due to the amount of rainfall. Water levels would rise on many of the region’s smaller local watercourses and many would spill their banks. In Chatham-Kent, the LTVCA would expect to have to operate the McGregor Creek Diversion to protect the south end of the City of Chatham from flooding.

Water levels on the Thames River would be expected to rise with the peak reaching the upstream areas of the Lower Thames jurisdiction on Monday. Water levels on the river could be expected to remain high most of next week as the water makes its way downstream. Water levels would be expected to rise and flood the low-lying flats adjacent to the river from Delaware down to Chatham. At this time, a more normal spring event is anticipated.

People should take extra 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 and pets 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 April 16th, 2018.

Contact: Jason Wintermute ([email protected],), 519-354-7310 x227) regarding this message.