Although the flood advisory has been lifted across Windsor-Essex, conservation officials are cautioning the public that as unseasonal weather becomes more common, any day can be a flood day.

Many waterways are swollen after this week's snow melt and rainfall, which have created unpredictable conditions on the banks of rivers and streams.

Some had fears that built-up ice could block drains, causing flooding in low-lying areas.

But John Henderson with the Essex Region Conservation Authority said the area didn't get enough rain for any damage to be done.

"The advisory that [was] out is basically precautionary in nature," said Henderson. "All the water courses in our region are flowing well at the moment. With what's predicted, we're going to monitor it but we aren't expecting anything too severe to occur."

Until about eight years ago, she said flooding generally happened in the spring, but now, mid-winter thaws are common.

Laurian Farrell is a senior manager of flood risk management in London, Ont.

"We hear about tragic stories every year and some of them can be easily avoided," said Farrell. "For instance, if you talk to your kids about the dangers around water and they know to stay well back, at least 10 feet from the riverbanks, because those banks are soft and can collapse pretty easily and unexpectedly, and the next thing you know, you're in the water."

Farrell also suggests drivers never go through a flooded street because a sink hole may be hidden under the water.