With heavy rain expected over the long weekend, the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) has issued a flood watch for Chatham-Kent.
Environment Canada issued a special weather statement for most of southwestern Ontario on Saturday. Total accumulations could range from 50-100 millimetres beginning Sunday before tapering off early Tuesday. With the recent precipitation the area has already seen, the ground will have less ability to absorb more rainfall.
Additionally, strong easterly winds could lead to shoreline flooding along Lake Erie throughout Chatham-Kent. Waves on Lake Erie could reach 1-1.5 metres in height with a potential for larger waves with higher wind speeds.
The LTVCA expects local ditches, creeks, and streams to rise by Sunday afternoon. The conservation authority said they are preparing to operate the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel to help protect the south end of Chatham from flooding.
Even with lower rainfall amounts predicted, the water levels on McGregor are expected to reach it's threshold sometime overnight Sunday or early Monday.
High water levels on Lake St. Clair will impact levels on the Thames River, which will likely flood the sidewalk along the river in the city's downtown. Next week, water from the Upper Thames will begin to move downstream from Delaware flooding the low lying river flats into Chatham.
Residents are being advised to ensure catch basins and other drainage areas are clear of debris to help reduce flooding, the LTVCA ask that people avoid areas near the river, ditches, and streams saying the combination of cold, fast-moving water can be dangerous.
The watch will be in effect until May 24, but officials will provide updates as the forecast changes.