Mixed bag of weather moving into region includes big dump of rain

As much as 40 millimeters of rain could fall this weekend in Southwestern Ontario, prompting several conservation authorities to issue flood advisories.

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Rain is expected to begin Friday afternoon and between 20 and 40 millimeters could fall by the time it tapers off Saturday afternoon or evening, Environment Canada said in a special weather statement.

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Temperatures are expected to fall Saturday from a high of 9 C to -1 C on Saturday night. Flurries are forecast after midnight with two centimeters of snow.

Several conservation authorities – the Upper Thames River, St. Clair Region and Catfish Creek – are warning about possible flooding and safety risks.

Water levels are expected to rise during the weekend with the potential for flooding in low-lying areas, the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority said in a statement Friday.

Officials are monitoring the weather and will report any changes. The flood advisory is in place until March 12.

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“Water levels will remain elevated throughout this weekend and into early next week,” the Upper Thames said.

The public is advised not to take shelter along river banks or in low-lying areas, the authority said. People and pets should avoid these areas.

The Catfish Creek Conservation Authority advises landowners to check dams, culverts, and catch basins and make sure they are free from debris.

Stream flow and water levels are below the seasonal average within the Catfish Creek watershed, the authority said.

Children who will be on March break next week are reminded to steer clear of flooded areas and slippery banks because of the dangers they pose, the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority said.

The forecast for Sunday calls for a high of 0 C and a low of -5 C with flurries. Monday and Tuesday look promising, with sunny skies and forecast highs of 6 C and 12 C. Highs of 12 are expected Wednesday and Thursday with a chance of showers both days, Environment Canada says.

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