Police warn residents of flooding ahead of rainy weekend

Melting snow and rainfall in Bracebridge, Ont. (CTV News/Rob Cooper)

The combination of heavy rain, strong winds and warm temperatures in the Southern Ontario forecast this weekend has police warning locals to prepare for potential flooding in certain areas.

In a Friday evening media release, Dufferin OPP stated that the forecast raises concerns about potential localized flooding, particularly in low-lying regions. Waldemar and Grand Valley were areas that were particularly pointed out.

Other communities near rivers, creeks and other bodies of water are at an increased risk of experiencing floods.

Residents are urged by authorities to stay up to date on the conditions, avoid driving or walking through flooded streets, prepare essential emergency items – such as flashlights, batteries, medications and important documents – and to clear gutters and drains of debris to minimize water buildup.

Those living in flood-prone areas are urged to proactively prepare.

In their special weather statement, Environment Canada is forecasting rainfall amounts of up to 35 millimetres and wind gusts of up to 80 kilometres per hour in many areas across southern and central Ontario this weekend.

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) issued a flood outlook bulletin for the Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound district this week, in effect until March 21.