WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY
(Issued March 29, 2019 at 3:30 pm; valid until April 2, 2019)

The Upper Thames River watershed is forecast to receive approximately 20 mm of rain, starting in the early hours of Saturday, and continuing into the afternoon. Should this rain materialize, expect water levels to rise to near bank full conditions with flooding in some low lying flood plain areas, similar to levels experienced earlier this month. Peaks will develop over the day Saturday, and should crest overnight in upstream areas and mid-day Sunday downstream, in London.

While serious flooding is not anticipated, water levels will be elevated throughout the weekend and into the coming week. Flood Coordinators should monitor flood prone areas as low lying flood plains may become inundated.

The public is reminded to exercise extreme caution and stay off of all water bodies. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Any ice will be unstable. Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses and off of frozen water bodies.

The UTRCA’s flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood and Pittock Conservation Areas are at seasonal levels and will be operated to reduce any downstream flooding. UTRCA officials are monitoring the situation, and will report on any changing conditions if necessary.

Thames River water level information

Types of Flood Bulletins:

• 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 — Issued to provide 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
• Flood Watch — issued when the potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities
• Flood Warning — issued when flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities

Contact: Eleanor Heagy, Communications Specialist