Watershed Conditions Statement issued for Windsor-Essex, Chatham-Kent

The Detroit River on Dec. 8, 2024. (Robert Lothian/CTV News Windsor)

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) has issued a Watershed Conditions Statement ahead of expected significant rainfall this weekend.

Rain will begin Saturday evening, continuing into Sunday evening, bringing upwards of 20 millimetres to 30 millimetres. Higher amounts are possible.

“The amount of rainfall could create ponding and areas of standing water,” said ERCA in the statement.

“This rain could also cause smaller watercourses to rise, and some could spill their banks into adjacent low-lying areas.”

Although the projected amounts don’t quite reach flood watch levels, the statement will remain in effect anyway until Monday at 10 a.m.

In Chatham-Kent, the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) issued a similar statement. Snowpack continues to melt in the area, causing additional water alongside the rain. This statement will also remain until Monday.

You are encouraged to be extra cautious and avoid flooding areas, rivers, streams, and shorelines during the rain.

Slippery banks and fast-moving water can be dangerous, especially for kids, pets, and livestock.

ERCA and LTVCA will continue to monitor the forecasts and update the statement as deemed necessary.