'Travel will be impacted' by weekend storm, warns Environment Canada

There's a flood watch from the Grand River Conservation Authority(GRCA) and a freezing rain statement from Environment Canada for Saturday.

Expect a full day of rain, at times heavy, likely changing to freezing rain in the afternoon. Rainfall could total 15 to 25 mm.

It will alsobe windy, with gusts up to 60 km/h in the morning and 40 km/h in the afternoon.

Saturday's projectedhigh temperature of 9 C around Waterloo region will come early in the morning, with temperature falling to 1 in the afternoon and a wind chill of 7in the afternoon.

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• Advisories, alerts in Southern Ontario from Environment Canada

"This scenario is expected to result in significant ice accretion," Environment Canada's special weather statement said.

The federal weather agency noted that wind gusts closer to Lake Huron could be nearer to 70 km/h on Sunday morning.

"Strong winds coupled with ice build-up on tree branches and power lines could cause power outages in the hardest hit areas," it said.

Flood risk

The GRCA's warning came late Thursday, in advance of the expected storm.

The watershed authoritywarned that rain and snow on top offrozen or soaked ground, combined with a significant snow melt, would cause "significant runoff."

Low lying areas should expect flooding, it said.

Be prepared

Waterloo Fire Rescue issued a release with tips to stay safe during any potential flooding or power outages:

• Portable generators should be used as a back-up power source only and should be used outside so exhaust fumes don't enter the home.
• Do not use barbecues for heat and do not store propane tanks inside.
• If the power goes out, use flashlights rather than candles, which are a fire hazard.
• To prevent flooding, ensureeavestroghs and storm water catch basins are clear of leaves. Fire officials remind people not to enter a flooded basement unless the power is disconnected.
• "Keep away from any tree branches that have damaged hydro lines," the release said, noting if you're in your car and you come across downed power lines, or they're over your vehicle, do not get out of the car."Fallen trees and ice-covered branches can pose considerable risk. Please approach with caution or contact professional tree services from certified arborists should you notice damage to privately-owned trees."

Alectra Utilities, which serves Guelph, also suggested people should have an emergency kit on hand that includes:medicine, first aid supplies, flashlights, new batteries, a battery-operated radio, a manual can opener, canned food, bottled water, blankets, food for pets and a list of important telephone numbers.