The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) is marking the start of March Break with a safety reminder for parents to keep kids away from waterways.
Southwestern Ontario is expected to receive between 20 to 44 mm of rain by Saturday night. While the wet weather isn't expected to cause any significant flooding, conservation officials have said it will cause water levels in local streams and rivers to rise. There is also potential for minor flooding in low-lying areas.
"The UTRCA reminds everyone that banks next to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard," the conservation authority said in a statement. "Standing water can also present dangers. Do not attempt to drive through flooded roadways."
The conservation authority will operate flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock conservation areas to reduce downstream flooding.
Water levels are expected to remain above normal until early next week.
The significant rainfall, the result of a low pressure system moving across the region, prompted Environment Canada to issue a special weather statement for southwestern Ontario. The national weather agency anticipates the rain will taper to flurries as colder air moves into the region on Saturday night.
