The Lower Thames Conservation Authority (LTVCA) issued a flood outlook on Wednesday night, noting that low-lying areas along the Thames River could see flooding. This includes the sidewalks in downtown Chatham.
Warm temperatures, melting snow, and forecast rains are expected lead to high water levels and potential flooding over the next few days.
Starting on Thursday, a warm weather system will move into the region, bringing unseasonably warm temperatures and 10 to 25 millimetres of rain. Even more rain is expected on Friday and Saturday.
Depending on the amount of rainfall, the LTVCA said it may need to operate the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel and/or the 6th St. Dam and Pumping Station.
The conservation authority added that while most local snow has melted, there is still a significant snowpack in the upper watershed, which is expected to melt and raise water levels in local waterways.
"Peak water levels are expected to arrive in the lower Thames River on Saturday and to work their way downstream over the next few days, arriving in the Chatham area early next week," A release from the LTVCA said. "Water levels on the river should be expected to remain elevated well into next week."
Area residents, especially children and pets, are advised to avoid the river, ditches, and streams as the combination of slippery banks, and fast-moving cold water can be dangerous.
The flood outlook is in effect until March 10.
