A warm weather system has moved into the region, bringing unseasonably warm temperatures and rain, which has the potential to cause ponding and flooding in some areas.
The watershed received 10-20 mm of rain on Thursday, followed by an additional 10-20 mm of rain as thunderstorms passed through the region on Friday night.
Another system is expected to move into the region late Saturday morning that will bring additional rain and thunderstorms. There is also rain in the forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday.
Due to the rain and the last bit of melting snow and ice, the watershed is seeing areas of ponding, standing water, and localized flooding.
Watercourses are expected to rise, and localized flooding could be seen. The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority is operating the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel in Chatham.
The Thames River is expected to rise. In Chatham, the LTVCA expects to operate the 6th St. Dam and Pumping Station. Peak water levels are expected to arrive in the lower Thames River on Sunday and to work their way downstream over the next few days.
People should take extra caution and avoid the river, ditches, and streams. People should stay out of any flooded areas and not drive through flooded roadways.
