The UTRCA may issue the following types of flood bulletins during a flood event. The terminology used is consistent with Conservation Authorities across Ontario, and in line with that used by other agencies such as the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources & Forestry, Environment & Climate Change Canada, and the Weather Network.
The icons used on the UTRCA website homepage during flood events are also shown below. These icons are consistent with icons used by most other Conservation Authorities.
1. Watershed Conditions Statement
These are general notices of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or that have the potential to lead to flooding.
Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety – Issued during periods of minor flooding to report on general watershed conditions to flood coordinators, and to remind the general public of general river safety issues.
Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions that could result in high runoff.
2. Flood Watch
Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
A Flood Watch message describes watershed conditions, the potential impact and may include a forecast of water levels. Municipal flood coordinators should initiate a check on their flood or emergency plans, monitor potential problem areas and, if required, remain on stand-by alert. Municipal flood coordinators may also advise specific properties at this stage.
3. Flood Warning
This is the most serious type of message: flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.
A Flood Warning message may include a call for a specific action to be taken by flood coordinators and/or emergency services, e.g., closing road and bridges, activating the emergency response plan, warning residents in specific areas or, in some areas, evacuation.
Special Bulletin
If the Thames River within the City of London reaches the level at which a boating ban is to be issued within the City, then the UTRCA informs the City of London Police so that they may implement the ban and inform the media.
Getting the Message
The UTRCA distributes flood messages to municipal flood coordinators and other agencies throughout the watershed:
• Municipal Flood Coordinators
• Local First Nations
• County & Health Unit Flood Coordinators
• Neighbouring Conservation Authorities
• Ministry of Natural Resources & Forestry Flood Forecasting Centre
• Local Police and Fire Departments
• Local school boards