The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority is urging caution when it comes to local waterways.

Officials say the area has received 50 mm of rain over the past three days, with another 25-40 mm coming from melting snow and ice.

According to the LTVCA, the water levels in the Thames River in London have peaked at flows that “exceed those observed during the 1977 and 2008/2009 floods” and today’s rainfall may boost those levels a bit more.

Locally, the Thames River levels are expected to peak in Thamesville and Chatham around Friday evening. From Delaware to Chatham, the river flats are flooded, and Middlesex and Elgin counties could experience flooding issues around bridge crossings and other low-lying areas.

The LTVCA says flooding is expected in Thamesville. Basement flooding is also expected for businesses backing onto the Thames River along King Street. They are warning business owners to be prepared for flooding on Thursday morning.

They also say that “residents with properties that back onto watercourses and the river should secure their properties and remove any items that could be damaged by flooding or get loose and become floating debris.”

Visit the LTVCA’s website for more information.