(Blackburn News file photo)(Blackburn News file photo)
Midwestern

Heavy rain could cause flooding in Ausable Bayfield Watershed

The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority has issued a flood outlook and water safety statement about heavy rain and localized flooding.

The statement says a trough has developed bringing a steading flow of gulf moisture across Southern Ontario beginning this afternoon.

Periods of heavy rains and thunderstorms are expected to last through the weekend, bringing up to 60 milimetres of rainfall tot he watershed.

The heaviest rainfall this weekend is expected to come in two waves, with the first wave reaching the ABCA watershed this afternoon and lasting into tomorrow.

Then temperatures and humidity are expected to rise Sunday, meaning a second wave could include severe thunderstorms Sunday afternoon and evening.

Widespread flooding problems are not expected. However, with embedded thunderstorms, and the high potential of ‘training’ storm cells, there is a strong possibility that some areas could see much higher rainfall totals, resulting in localized flooding issues.

Residents are reminded to use caution near all watercourses. Significant flooding is not expected at this time, but slippery and unstable streambanks, and fast-flowing water will combine to create hazardous conditions.

Yesterday, Saugeen Valley conservation issued a similar statement.

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