The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority has issued a flood watch for the entire watershed due to potential rapid increases in water levels in the coming days caused by a combination of rain, snowmelt, and saturated ground. Recent above-average temperatures, along with rainfall ranging from five to 20 millimetres over the past week, have accelerated the snowpack’s melting process and raised water levels. Consequently, some regions have already experienced flooding into natural floodplains and low-lying areas.
Environment Canada’s forecast predicts an additional 10 to 15 millimetres of rain from late Thursday into Friday, with another five to 10 millimetres possible on Saturday. Temperatures are expected to remain above freezing until Friday, then drop below zero overnight before temporarily rising again on Saturday.
The Conservation Authority anticipates a rapid rise in water levels, potentially leading to road and field pooling. Municipalities are advised to closely monitor local conditions, especially in areas prone to drainage issues. Ice remnants in rivers and streams could obstruct water flow during runoff, heightening the risk of flooding.
Residents are cautioned to avoid watercourses and flooded zones due to slippery banks, unsafe ice, and swiftly moving water. Children and pets should be kept away from these areas for safety reasons.
The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority will continue to monitor watershed conditions and issue updates if flooding occurs. Municipal emergency response teams and road superintendents are advised to stay vigilant. The flood watch is in effect until noon on Monday, Jan. 12, unless updated earlier.
In other regions, flood conditions remain normal. The Essex Region Conservation Authority has reported green statuses for both shoreline and watershed floods, while the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority indicates normal levels for shorelines, rivers, and streams.
Additionally, Environment Canada has issued a wind warning for parts of southwestern Ontario, including Windsor, Leamington, Essex County, Sarnia, Petrolia, Chatham-Kent, and western Lambton County. Gusts of 70 to 90 kilometres per hour are expected on Friday, accompanied by showers and a potential risk of thunderstorms generating sudden strong winds as a cold front sweeps through the area. Another round of strong winds with gusts reaching 80 to 90 km/h may occur later in the day before easing off in the evening.