Warming trend will melt remaining snow over the next few days (flood bulletin, March 8-15, 2021)
WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – FLOOD OUTLOOK
Issued March 08, 2021 at 4 pm; Valid until March 15, 2021
The snow pack in the Upper Thames River basin has been consolidating over the past couple of weeks, and the forecast warm temperatures for this week are expected to melt the majority of any remaining snow. The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority’s (UTRCA) March 1st snow survey measured an average of 40 mm of water content in the snowpack across the watershed. Since that survey, the water content has decreased due to minor runoff combined with sublimation to the atmosphere, with minimal new snowfall.
With the current weather forecasts, the UTRCA expects the majority of the snowpack to be gone by Wednesday, with peak flows occurring Wednesday during the day and into the early evening. We do not anticipate any serious flooding at this time, but low lying areas and parklands may be inundated in some areas, such as Harris and Gibbons Parks in London.
There is also 15 mm of light rain in the forecast for Thursday, which will extend the period of higher than normal water into the weekend. If there is an increase in the amount of rain forecast, the UTRCA may issue an updated flood bulletin.
The UTRCA’s flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation Areas are at seasonal levels and are being operated to reduce any downstream flooding. UTRCA officials are monitoring the situation, and will report on any changing conditions as necessary.
The public is reminded to exercise extreme caution and stay away from all water bodies. Any ice cover is weakened and unstable. Flood control reservoirs are especially hazardous due to fluctuating water levels. 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 watercourses and off of frozen water bodies.
See Thames River flow and water level information
Types of Flood Bulletins
Contact: Teresa Hollingsworth, Manager, Community & Corporate Services