Rain, warm temperatures and melting snow could cause flooding in Waterloo region Wednesday
Up to 25 mm of rain could fall and afternoon thunderstorms possible, Environment Canada warns
A combination of heavy rainfall, warm temperatures and melting snow could lead to flooding in parts of Waterloo region, Guelph and Wellington County Wednesday.
The area is under a special weather statement from Environment Canada.
The forecast says up to 25 mm of rain could fall in the area. There is also the risk of a thunderstorm Wednesday afternoon or early evening.
Fog is also possible midway through the day.
The rain is expected to switch to flurries overnight as temperatures move back down to the freezing mark.
Flood watch issued
The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has issued a flood watch for the entirety of the watershed.
"A low-pressure system moving across the central United States is expected to bring warmer temperatures and precipitation to the watershed tomorrow and Wednesday," the watch said.
Warmer temperatures are expected in the southern part of the watershed, from Brantford to Lake Erie, while cooler temperatures are expected in the north in areas like Orangeville.
"The river system is largely ice covered and there is a heavy snowpack across most of the watershed. The warm conditions and rain will generate runoff and will likely be sufficient to cause the river ice cover to break up and start moving, which raises the risk of ice jam formation and associated flood potential," the GRCA said.
The GRCA warned people who live in low-lying areas or parts of the watershed prone to flooding to prepare for the potential of rising waters and reminded them to sign up for alerts from their municipalities.
The flood watch remains in effect until 12 p.m. on Thursday.