The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority has issued a flood watch for the region.
Environment Canada is calling for 25-50 mm of rainfall Sunday evening into Monday, causing is an increased risk of flooding. The conservation authority says heavy rainfall earlier this week has already saturated the ground and has raised water levels.
Smaller local watercourses are expected to rise quickly and some may spill their banks if the heavy rain persists. Residents upstream of Chatham can expect to see water levels rise, but still remain within the river flats.
However, depending on the amount and timing of the rainfall, there is the potential for basement flooding in Chatham for businesses on King St. that back onto the Thames River.
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 should also be avoided.
The flood watch will remain in effect until Monday.
