Streams and Rivers expected to rise in response to Rain and Warm Temperatures (media release, February 8, 2023)
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) expects streams and rivers to rise beginning Thursday afternoon and into Friday, as forecast rain and warmer temperatures melt the snowpack.
The UTRCA reminds parents to keep children and pets away from all watercourses and off of frozen water bodies. As water levels rise, it is not safe to take shelter along riverbanks or in low lying areas that are prone to flooding. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard.
The public is also reminded to exercise extreme caution and stay off all frozen water bodies. Any ice cover will be weakened and unstable. Flood control reservoirs will be especially hazardous due to fluctuating water levels.
On Thursday, a low-pressure system is expected to move into the province, bringing 20-25 mm of rain to southern Ontario by the afternoon. Temperatures are expected to reach double digits in the afternoon, before returning to below freezing early Friday morning. The incoming weather conditions will begin to melt this snowpack, which the UTRCA estimates contains approximately 30-35 mm of water equivalent.
Water levels in streams and rivers will respond to the runoff from the rain and melting snow. The UTRCA expects water levels to remain above normal over the weekend. Serious flooding is not expected at this time.
The UTRCA’s flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation Areas are at seasonal levels and will be operated to reduce downstream flooding if required.
- See Thames River water levels and flows
- Types of flood bulletins
- Find out how the UTRCA manages floods
Contact: Teresa Hollingsworth, Manager, Community and Corporate Services