Thamesville flooding. Feb 23, 2018. (Photo by Paul Pedro)Thamesville flooding. Feb 23, 2018. (Photo by Paul Pedro)
Chatham

Flood Warning Still in Effect Saturday (GALLERY)

Flood waters may have passed peak in portions of Chatham-Kent, but the danger is not yet over.

The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority continues its flood warning for the Thames River watershed.

The LTVCA says water levels have been dropping in Thamesville, where they peaked around 7am Saturday and where a state of emergency remains in effect. The authority also says water levels are dropping in Middlesex and Elgin Counties.

However, Environment Canada says another 10mm to 20mm of rain is in the forecast, meaning it could make already saturated ground worse.

Water levels in Chatham have already exceeded those observed in 1977.  Several low lying roads and buildings along the Thames are already experiencing flooding; including but not limited to Siskind Court, William and Water, Salter, Pegley, and the low portion of Thames St along the river.

The LTVCA says the river can be expected to rise another 150mm to 300mm before daybreak Sunday.  This could put water levels on the river as high as those observed in 1985.  It should be noted that the forecasted additional rainfall may increase water levels on the river.

High water levels are expected to remain on the Lower Thames for areas through Chatham-Kent and into Lakeshore.

Officials are continuously monitoring conditions and will provide updates when they become available.

Flooding along Thames St. in Chatham Saturday evening. February 24, 2018. (Photo by Natalia Vega)Flooding along Thames St. in Chatham Saturday evening. February 24, 2018. (Photo by Natalia Vega)

Flooding along Thames St. in Chatham Saturday evening. February 24, 2018. (Photo by Natalia Vega)Flooding along Thames St. in Chatham Saturday evening. February 24, 2018. (Photo by Natalia Vega)

Flooding on Thomas St. at Van Allen Ave. in Chatham. February 24, 2018. (Photo by Natalia Vega).Flooding on Thomas St. at Van Allen Ave. in Chatham. February 24, 2018. (Photo by Natalia Vega).

Flooding on Thomas St. at Van Allen Ave. in Chatham. February 24, 2018. (Photo by Natalia Vega).Flooding on Thomas St. at Van Allen Ave. in Chatham. February 24, 2018. (Photo by Natalia Vega).

Fast moving water on the Thames River at Grand Ave. W. in Chatham. February 24, 2018. (Photo by Natalia Vega, Blackburn News.)Fast moving water on the Thames River at Grand Ave. W. in Chatham. February 24, 2018. (Photo by Natalia Vega, Blackburn News.)

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