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The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) has issued a “watershed conditions statement” due to current ground conditions and anticipated rainfall.
According to The Windsor Star, Environment Canada has also issued a rainfall warning for parts of Ontario, east of Essex, predicting up to 40 mm of rain. With frozen ground in place, concerns about localised flooding and slippery conditions are growing.
The Essex region recently experienced unseasonably warm weather, accompanied by minor rainfall over the last two days. Now, more rain is forecast for much of southern Ontario this weekend, with additional rainfall expected in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Barbara Lapido, an operational meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, confirmed, “The regions in southwestern Ontario are expecting more rain, plus the GTA, for the weekend — especially Saturday.”
ERCA’s flood outlook statement, issued Sunday morning, warns that up to 30 mm of rain could lead to elevated drainage systems in Windsor-Essex’s rural areas. The combination of rainfall and frozen ground may result in above-normal runoff, heightening the risk of localised flooding.
Residents are advised to exercise caution near rivers, streams, and shorelines during heavy rain and wind. ERCA highlighted the dangers of slippery banks, fast-moving water, and standing water, which can conceal hazards. Children, pets, and livestock should be kept away from such areas.
Freezing Rain Warnings in Eastern Ontario
Further east, the situation could worsen, with freezing rain expected in areas like the Ottawa Valley. Lapido explained that light, patchy freezing rain is likely to persist throughout Saturday, possibly switching to rain as temperatures rise to 0°C by Sunday morning. Environment Canada issued freezing rain warnings late Friday, urging drivers to prepare for icy roads and slippery conditions.
Warmer Weekend but Colder Days Ahead
This weekend, most of Ontario will see above-average temperatures, except for the eastern region, which will remain in the negatives. Rainfall totals are forecast at 15-25 mm in southwestern Ontario and 20-30 mm in the GTA as per Toronto.com.
Around Georgian Bay, a mix of freezing rain and regular rain is expected, adding to travel hazards.
Lapido added that seasonal temperatures will return mid-next week, with a gradual drop beginning Sunday.
“They will decrease day by day, so by Wednesday or Thursday, it will be more normal,” the weather expert noted.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed, drive cautiously, and prepare for changing weather conditions in the days ahead.
