Tuesday morning’s heavy rain has prompted the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority to issue a flood watch.

Environment Canada is predicting up to 50 mm of rain in some parts of Lambton County Tuesday. That, coupled with Monday’s heavy rain has saturated the ground and increased the runoff.

“Localized flooding in low-lying areas, floodplains, agricultural and parkland is anticipated,” the authority said in the flood watch.

Here’s the notice in its entirety

Highlights:

·         Thunderstorm risk

·         Rainfall totals of 10 to 30mm

·         Potential for 50mm in localized areas

·         Elevated water levels, potential for flooding

·         Saturated soils, ponding and flooding in floodplain areas

Message: Elevated water levels

Environment Canada is forecasting another series of low pressure systems over the region Tuesday (July 16) that could bring an additional 10-30mm of rain, with the potential for upwards of 50mm in localized areas. Mondays (July 15) rain, that was heavy at times, brought 15-50mm of rain across the region. The ground in the region is saturated due to the rain that the watershed received last week. As a result, water levels are expected to remain high due to the increase in runoff. Localized flooding in low-lying areas; floodplain, agricultural and parkland is anticipated.

As water levels continue to rise, the following roads may become impacted:

·         Stanley Line between Kimball Road and Waubuno Road

·         Wabuno Road between Bickford Line and Oil Springs Line

·         Pretty Road north of McCallum Line

·         Waterworks Road north of Courtright Line

·         Tefler Road between Courtright Line and Moore Line

Individuals are reminded to avoid watercourses and flooded areas due to dangerous conditions, slippery banks and cold, swift moving water. Children and pets should be kept away from the water.

The Conservation Authority continues to monitor watershed conditions and will issue advisories to municipalities and media should flood issues arise.