Residents in Tillsonburg should prepare for heavy rain this weekend, as a weather system moves into the region bringing a risk of localized flooding and strong winds. Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for the area, calling for total rainfall amounts between 25 and 50 mm from Saturday into Saturday night.
The precipitation is being driven by a Colorado low-pressure system. While the rain is expected to start on Saturday, the heaviest downpours are anticipated during the evening and overnight hours. There is also a possibility of thunderstorms, which could lead to higher rainfall totals in some parts of the region. Because there remains some uncertainty regarding exactly where the highest amounts of rain will fall, Environment Canada notes that further rainfall warnings may be issued as the situation develops.
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority, which monitors water levels in the local watershed, has issued a flood outlook for the week. While the authority does not currently expect serious flooding, staff are monitoring the system closely. To help mitigate the impact of the incoming rain, the agency is actively managing its flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock conservation areas.
The weather will also bring a significant temperature shift to the community. After a relatively mild high of 17°C during the day on Saturday, temperatures are expected to drop to 4°C by Saturday night, followed by a much cooler Sunday with a high of only 5°C. Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on their property drainage and to exercise caution if travelling near waterways or in areas prone to low-lying water as levels rise throughout the weekend.
