The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority has issued an updated flood watch for the region, warning that heavy rainfall and already saturated ground could increase the risk of flooding through the coming days.
The advisory follows a rainfall warning from Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasting 20 to 40 millimetres of rain beginning Tuesday night and continuing into Wednesday, with locally higher amounts possible in areas that receive thunderstorms.
Heavy downpours could cause flash flooding and water pooling on roads, while localized flooding in low-lying areas is also possible.
The conservation authority says recent snowmelt and rainfall have already led to ponding, standing water and localized flooding across the watershed. Although watercourse levels have been falling since peak levels reached Sunday, they remain high ahead of the incoming rain.
Officials say the ground is saturated and will not be able to absorb additional rainfall. Water levels are expected to begin rising again Wednesday and could remain elevated into next week. Depending on the timing and intensity of the rain, levels could increase rapidly.
Temperatures are expected to drop back toward the freezing mark by late Wednesday night and remain near freezing until Friday morning, which may help slow the amount of runoff entering local watercourses.
The conservation authority also reported a road closure in St. Clair Township, where Stanley Line is closed between Kimball Road and Waubuno Road.
Municipal staff are being asked to monitor local conditions closely, particularly in known drainage problem areas.
Residents are reminded to avoid watercourses and flooded areas due to potentially dangerous conditions, including slippery banks, unsafe ice cover and cold, fast-moving water. The authority also advises keeping children and pets away from waterways.
The conservation authority says it will continue to monitor watershed conditions and will provide updates to municipalities and the media if flood concerns increase.
The flood watch is expected to remain in effect until March 16 unless updated earlier.
