ERCA issues flood watch for Windsor-Essex

The Essex Region Conservation Authority has issued a flood watch for Windsor-Essex.

The watchis in effect until noon Thursday.

"Forecasts originally predicted up to 40 millimetresof rain with heavy thunderstorms throughout the region for Tuesday," the conservation authoritywrote in the alert.

"However, ERCA's network of climate stations has recorded over 40 millimetres throughout a large area within Windsor-Essex within the last 24 hours."

Areas of northern Amherstburg and Essex, southern Tecumseh, LaSalle and the City of Windsor hadreceived 40 to 50 millimetres, with some localized areas exceeding 50 millimetresas of 3:30 a.m., the authority said.

Additional rainfall is expected Wednesday morning.

ERCA expects some low-lying localized areas to experience ponding,and smaller watercourses, such asditches and drains, to be flowing full.

The authority issues flood watches when flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. It advises municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas toprepare.

ERCA is encouraging people to take be cautiousand avoid areas where flooding is occurring.

It's also advising people to avoid rivers, streams, and shoreline areas during significant rainfall and wind events.

"The combination of slippery banks and fast-moving water can be dangerous," it said.

"Standing water can also present its own unseen hazards. Children, pets, and livestock should be kept away from flowing or standing water. People are encouraged to monitor local forecasts."