Rainfall prompts watershed conditions statement for Essex Region

A mix of warm and stormy weather for spring in Windsor, Ont. (Submitted to CTV Windsor)

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) has issued a watershed conditions statement for the region as several days of rain are expected to move through the area.

Environment Canada has also issued a Special Weather Statement.

The authority says light rain is forecast to begin overnight Monday, with heavier rainfall expected Tuesday evening and continuing into Wednesday.

Forecasters predict between 20 and 40 millimetres of rain could fall across the region from Monday night through Thursday morning.

Officials say that amount of rainfall could lead to ponding and standing water in low-lying areas. Smaller watercourses may also rise, and some could spill over their banks into adjacent areas.

Despite the expected rainfall, the conservation authority says conditions remain below the threshold for a flood watch.

The watershed conditions statement is expected to remain in effect until noon on Thursday.

Residents are being urged to use caution near rivers, streams and shoreline areas during periods of heavy rain and wind. The authority says slippery banks and fast-moving water can be dangerous, and standing water may hide additional hazards.

ERCA officials are also reminding residents to keep children, pets and livestock away from flowing or standing water.

The conservation authority says it will continue to monitor weather forecasts and update the advisory if conditions change.