The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) has issued a water safety advisory as Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts the potential for isolated thunderstorms and heavy rainfall across the region beginning Wednesday evening.
Rainfall amounts of 15 to 25 mm are expected between Wednesday evening and mid-day Thursday, with an additional 10 to 25 mm possible from thunderstorm activity. A further 5 to 15 mm is forecast from Thursday afternoon into early Friday, with localized amounts of up to 25 mm possible from convective rain.
If the higher end of the forecast totals are realized, the region could see 50 to 80 mm of accumulated rainfall by early Friday. The advisory warns that intense rainfall in short periods could lead to increased runoff, ponding, and flash flooding, particularly in urban areas. Localized flooding and erosion are also possible.
There is a possibility that wildfire smoke in the upper atmosphere may suppress thunderstorm development or intensity.
Residents are advised to avoid rivers, streams, and other watercourses during this time due to slippery banks, fast-moving water, and flood risks. Children and pets should be kept away from water bodies.
Municipal emergency response teams and road supervisors are being asked to monitor local conditions closely. The SCRCA will continue to track watershed conditions and will issue further updates if necessary.
The advisory remains in effect until 12 p.m. on Friday, June 6, unless updated earlier.
