Freezing Rain on trees. (BlackburnNews.com file photo)Freezing Rain on trees. (BlackburnNews.com file photo)
Sarnia

UPDATE: Storm Packs Potential For Heavy Rain, Ice

A large moisture-laden storm system moving up the Ohio Valley will bring heavy rain and ice to most of southern Ontario over the weekend.

Environment Canada meteorologist Etienne Gregoire says Sarnia-Lambton will receive straight rain for the most part, but some freezing rain is possible, Saturday afternoon and into Sunday.

"It's really gaining some strength now with moisture from the Gulf of Mexico and that's heading our way," says Gregoire. "It's Saturday that we think that very first band has the threat of freezing rain."

Freezing rain warnings were issued across the province Friday including Sarnia-Lambton, and rainfall warnings are also possible with the potential for 50 mm (2 inches) or more over the weekend.

Environment Canada says the ice storm could be "potentially historic" for some areas.

Gregoire says the intense low-pressure system will pull in cold air from the north, turning rain into freezing rain.

He says the heaviest ice is most likely across a swath from Goderich and Port Elgin to Mount Forest, Lake Simcoe, Toronto and into eastern Ontario.

Ice accretion up to 25 mm (1 inch) and gusty winds could cause widespread power outages due to fallen trees and power lines.

Dangerous winter driving conditions are expected on untreated roads Saturday and Sunday, worsened by fallen tree limbs.

Public Safety Canada encourages everyone to make an emergency plan and get an emergency kit with drinking water, food, medicine, a first-aid kit and a flashlight.

The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority issued a water safety statement Friday in advance of the storm, saying 75-95 mm of precipitation (nearing 4 inches) is forecast over 72 hours.

Water levels will rise with the potential for localized flooding in floodplain areas, parks and farm fields throughout the region.

Residents are being told to stay away from fast flowing water and slippery banks.

There is the potential for some road closures due to flooding.

The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority posted a similar statement Friday.

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