The City of St. Catharines wants residents to be ready for potentially severe weather over the next few days.
Environment Canada forecasts a major winter storm will move into Ontario from Texas, bringing with it significant amounts of rain, snow, ice pellets and possibly freezing rain.
Environment Canada says the storm could bring up to 35 mm of rain and possibly freezing rain early Wednesday.
Officials say city crews will continually monitor the storm as it passes through the region and will take appropriate action in the event that temperatures drop and result in slippery road conditions.
The City reminds residents that heavy rains have the potential to cause flooding this time of year because frozen ground has a reduced ability to absorb rainfall.
City crews will be checking and clearing watercourse storm grates and will continue to monitor them during and after the storm.
If they can do so safely, residents can help by clearing storm grates, drains and catch basins fronting their property that may blocked.
Call Citizens First at 905.688.5600 to report fallen trees, blocked catch basins, water over the road and sewer back-ups.
Power outages can be reported to Horizon Utilities at 905.684.8111.
Forestry staff are also on alert in the event of falling trees or limbs. If a tree has fallen on power lines, report it to Horizon Utilities at 905.684.8111.
Residents should not touch any downed power lines or any branches or trees touching a power line.
Report storm-damaged, city-owned trees to the City at 905.688.5600.
Residents can protect themselves and their families by bringing inside items from their property and staying clear of streams, ditches, creeks and shorelines as banks may be slippery and unstable and water levels may rise quickly.
St. Catharines Fire Services reminds residents that in the event of a power outage candles cannot be left unattended and must be placed in a secure candle holder.
Residents are also encouraged to test their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, both of which are required by law to be installed in all homes.