WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – FLOOD OUTLOOK (Issued May 16, 2020 at 2:30 pm; Valid until May 19, 2020)
A low pressure system forecast to move into southwestern Ontario on Sunday will bring rain into the region over the next few days. This system has the potential to bring a total of 50 mm to 90 mm of rain to the Upper Thames River watershed, mostly over Sunday and Monday.
While serious flooding is not anticipated, if the higher rain totals are received, the UTRCA expects water to be out of bank, and for low lying areas that traditionally flood in the spring to be inundated. Peaks are expected in upstream areas (Stratford, Woodstock) and on smaller tributaries Monday morning, and to move through London early on Tuesday.
The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution around all local ditches, streams and rivers. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from all waterways.
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.
See Thames River water level information
Contact: Teresa Hollingsworth, Manager, Community & Corporate Services