Some parts of southwestern Ontario are under a special weather statement on Wednesday as large amounts of rain are expected to fall throughout the day.
According to Environment Canada, showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue into the afternoon, with local rainfall amounts predicted to reach between 30 millimetres and 50 millimetres.
The special weather statement is currently in effect for London, Middlesex, Parkhill, Strathroy, Komoka, Stratford, Grand Bend, Goderich, Windsor, Chatham, Sarnia and portions of Huron, Perth and Lambton County.
Severe thunderstorm warnings are also in effect for a number of regions.
The national weather agency said rainfall warnings may also be required for some areas.
“Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads,” the statement read. “Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible.”
Environment Canada also warns of the possibility of “quarter-sized” hail in the Sarnia-Petrolia-Western Lambton County region.
“Areas that receive multiple thunderstorms may receive rainfall amounts near 50 mm,” the statement added.
Additionally, due to the forecast of heavy rain, the Long Point Region Conservation Authority has issued a water safety statement.
The conservation authority said that due to forecasted conditions, water levels and flows are expected to increase, urging people to stay away from ditches, streams, rivers and ponds “as the combination of slippery banks, and fast-flowing water is dangerous.”
“No major flooding is expected to occur based on this forecast however; some watercourses may reach or exceed their banks creating localized flooding in floodplains, low-lying areas and regions with poor drainage.” the statement said.
“Landowners are also advised to make sure dams, culverts, and catch basins are free from debris and functioning properly, if the work can be done safely.”
Water levels are expected to remain high until the weekend.
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