Niles street crews were busy Wednesday clearing snow and debris from drains and street inlets citywide, making sure there is a place for the water to go as the snow continues to melt.

Temperatures reached the lower 40s Wednesday and are expected to rise into the upper 40s today.

Joe Ray, public works director, said he doesn’t anticipate too many problems with flooding as long as the snow and ice continues thawing at a steady pace. Heavy rain could expedite the process, though, he said.

Showers were forecasted for today.

Ray said residents could help the city by clearing snow or debris from inlets near their homes.

In addition to cleaning drains, Ray said street crews were busy filling potholes Wednesday.

The National Weather Service issued a flood watch Wednesday morning for Berrien and Cass counties, advising that rain on Thursday combined with melting snow will bring a risk for flooding to many areas. The National Weather Service is asking people living in areas prone to flooding to take time to prepare and listen for possible warnings.