Heavy rainfall Wednesday resulted in significant flooding in Warwick Township.
As a result, Mayor Todd Case declared a state of emergency on Thursday afternoon.
He said the municipality is taking the situation seriously and there will be a significant financial impact on the community and businesses.
"Staff continue to monitor roads and waterways and are looking into several possible sources of funding for residents and businesses," said Case. “While we are fortunate that the situation does not pose a threat to public safety, financial loss is going to be huge. By declaring an emergency, we can raise public awareness and provide flexibility to call on partners to assist in the response if needed."
Case said The Township of Warwick’s Emergency Response Committee met Wednesday evening. Homeowners were being advised to contact their insurance company and keep a log of damages.
Case said he is grateful that at this time no injuries have been reported and he thanks staff and first responders for their quick efforts.
“We are fortunate no one has been reported injured as a result of last night’s flooding,” said Case. “Unfortunately, numerous Warwick Township residents are dealing with basement flooding and the Warwick Conservation Area continues to be closed. Our crews worked through the night to restore access.”
Case said he's never experienced anything like this.
"This has been a devastating event for our community in many, many ways," he said. "But, the municipality has worked through the night and we will continue to do our due diligence in trying to help folks get through this situation."
A rainfall warning was in effect for Sarnia-Lambton Wednesday afternoon, advising of the potential of over 50 millimetres of rain, with higher amounts possible in some areas due to thunderstorms. Environment Canada said some parts of southwestern Ontario received over 135 mm of rain.
As of Thursday morning several roads were still closed, including:
-Sexton Road between Zion Line and Egremont Road
-Bethel Road from Egremont Road to Birman Line
-Warwick Village Road accessing the Warwick Conservation Area
-Zion Line between Nauvoo Road and London Line
-Warwick Village Road between Birnam Line and Hickory Creek
Residents are encouraged to check the Township's Facebook Page for updates.
A section of the westbound Highway 402 between Kerwood Road and Forest Road was closed for several hours, but has since reopened to traffic according to OPP.
Due to damage from heavy rain, Rock Glen Conservation Area in Arkona is closed until further notice.