Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement as heavy rain falls on Windsor-Essex, and the Essex Region Conservation Authority has issued a flood watch.
A low-pressure system, tracking just south of Lake Erie, will bring the region prolonged periods of showers. There may be a few thunderstorms too.
By 4 p.m Friday, Environment Canada reported 50 to 75 mm of rain fell in some areas with localized flooding throughout the region. An additional 30 to 50 mm is expected by Saturday morning.
The conservation authority warns wet ground conditions already and elevated lake levels increase the risk of standing water in low-lying areas and near shorelines.
Its flood watch is in effect until noon on Saturday.
"People are encouraged to take extra caution to avoid areas where flooding is occurring as well as rivers, streams, and shoreline areas," its statement read. "The combination of slippery banks, waves, waves overtopping shoreline structures and fast-moving water can be dangerous."
Meanwhile, in the City of Windsor, residents are asked to call 311 through the mobile app, or online, if they experience flooding.
"This is a significant rainfall that is causing issues for homes and on roadways," said Windsor City Engineer Mark Winterton. "And we know contacting 311 might not be top priority for homeowners right at the moment but by using the app at their convenience we’ll be taking the numbers and locations of those flooded and we’ll add that information to our growing data base to help plan for a future where flooding becomes less and less of an issue."
The City says crews are out working to clear water from some streets that may be flooded, and are asking drivers to stay out of flooded areas until the rain passes and the system catches up with pumping the rain away.
