Rain warnings, flood watches issued for parts of northwestern Ontario as heavy rain continues

Environment Canada has issued rainfall warnings for communities across northwestern Ontario due to forecasted heavy rain and strong winds on the way.

The agency said total rainfall amounts between 60 to 80 millimetres are possible overnight Tuesday, mixed with wind gusts up to 70 kilometres per hour.

"We have a pretty strong low pressure system coming into northwestern Ontario," said Judy Kidd, warning preparedness meteorologist with Environment Canada. "It's going to start bringing some rain to Thunder Bay likely [Tuesday] evening, possibly later this afternoon."

"We're going to see lots of rain, we're going to see strong winds," she said. "We might even see some thunderstorms."

About 50 mm of rain is in the forecast for most of the region, but some areas including Kenora and Red Lake could see up to 80 mm.

Snow is possible in the Dryden, Kenora, Vemilion Bay and Ignace areas, as well, Environment Canada said.

Flood watch for Thunder Bay and surrounding areas

The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA) also issued a flood watch on Tuesday afternoon, coveringThunder Bay, Neebing, Oliver Paipoonge, Shuniah, O'Connor, Conmee, Gillies, and Dorion.

"The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority advises that 20 to 40 millimetres of precipitation is forecasted over the next 24 hours," the LRCA said. "There is also potential for thunderstorms producing an additional 25 to 50 millimetres of precipitation.Localized thunderstorms may also occur which could result in higher amounts in some areas."

"Area watercourses are expected to rise in response to any rainfall," the LRCA stated. "The public is advised to pay attention to local forecasts, and exercise caution in and around area waterways. High flows and unstable slippery banks could be dangerous. Additionally, never drive through a flooded road."

Kidd said it's possible thunderstorms could cause utility outages, and advised people to drive safely if out during the storm.

"If anyone is planning on traveling this evening, overnight into the morning when the rain will be at its heaviest, it's important to take your time when you're out there," she said. "If the visibility is reduced while you're driving, slow down, watch for those tail lights and be prepared to stop."

Kidd said the rainfall should taper off by Wednesday afternoon, and the storm is expected to end by Wednesday evening.