The Essex Region Conservation Authority says the risk of flooding is a real problem for homeowners in low lying areas, as temperatures rise.
ERCA has been checking snow banks throughout Essex County to see how much water equivalency there is. In some areas, snowbanks are holding the equivalent of 25mm of rain.
Tim Byrne, director of water management services, is recommending homeowners clear snow from structures and drains to help prevent flooding.
“(Any) areas on their property that are going to drain, stand pipes, catch basins, get to them and see if they can remove the snow from those areas," Byrne says.
Environment Canada has forecast temperatures in the coming days to hit as high as 5 C with a moderate chance of rain.
As a result, Byrne says there’s going to be a lot of standing water and potential for flooding.
“Everywhere throughout the region, in the rural areas and the urban areas, there is going to be standing water this week."
