As heavy rains hit the region, Environment Canada issued a weather statement Wed. warning Niagara residents to watch out for the potential of localized flooding.

St. Catharines, Grimsby and the northern Niagara Region are expected to see 15 to 25 millimetres of rainfall combined with melting snow Wed.

There will be a reduced ability to absorb rainfall as the ground is frozen, according to Environment Canada.

“Localized flooding in low-lying areas and water pooling on roads is possible,” Environment Canada said.

A risk of thunderstorms Wed. afternoon into the evening are expected.

Temperatures are also anticipated to rapidly drop Wed. night into Thurs. morning, with rain turning into snow.

Gusty winds are predicted to hit the region Thurs., Environment Canada said.

“Travel may become hazardous beginning Thurs. morning. Strong wind gusts may be capable of tossing loose objects and causing tree branches to break,” said Environment Canada, noting utility outages are also possible.

Environment Canada has advised residents to monitor alerts and forecasts to stay informed about local weather alerts.