P.E.I.'s Kings and Queens counties warned heavy weekend rain could cause flooding

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for P.E.I.'s Kings and Queens counties, saying heavy rain expected this weekend could cause flooding.

"The frozen ground has reduced ability to absorb this rainfall," the agency warned, saying 20 to 40 millimetres could fall by late Saturday.

Precipitation is expected to start Friday evening, lasting for about 24 hours.

CBC meteorologist Jay Scotland said some of the precipitation could fall in the form of snow, with 5 to 10 centimetres possible in Kings County.

Prince County will get some rain and snow, but the worst of the precipitation will be in the other two counties. (Jay Scotland/CBC)

"Light flurries begin Friday afternoon and will likely mix to rain showers by late afternoon or early evening for most areas," he said, adding that patchy freezing rain is possible during the transition.

"As a brisk but mild southerly wind veers to gusty north-northwesterly wind on Saturday, lingering rain will transition back to snow as the temperature falls," Scotland said.

"Please be prepared for water pooling on roads Friday night and Saturday morning, followed by icy roads and sidewalks Saturday afternoon and evening. Reduced visibility is also possible Saturday afternoon due to a fairly gusty wind and onshore flurries."

Light flurries are expected to kick off the weather event starting Friday afternoon. (Jay Scotland/CBC)

Environment Canada noted that storms like this have caused localized flooding in low-lying areas in the past.

As well, its statement said, "significant snowmelt and runoff may occur. Be sure to clear storm drains and gutters of ice and other debris."