Conservation Authority Urges Caution around Watercourses
Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety (Issued December 28, 2023 at 8:30 am; valid until December 30, 2023)
The Upper Thames River watershed received between 25 and 35 mm of rain across the watershed on Wednesday. The ground is fairly saturated and the potential for runoff is increased. Creeks are responding, and currently flowing near bank-full, with peaks expected today.
Based on the current weather outlook and streamflow forecasts, major flooding is not anticipated.
With the holiday break in progress, residents are reminded to use extreme caution near all watercourses. Parents and caregivers are asked to keep children and pets away from all watercourses. Banks adjacent to rivers, creeks, and ditches may be slippery and, when combined with fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard.
Residents are reminded that standing water can also present dangers. Do not attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
It is not safe to take shelter along riverbanks or in low lying areas that are prone to flooding.
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority’s (UTRCA) flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation Areas will be operated to reduce downstream flooding.
This message will remain in effect until Saturday, December 30, 2023, unless local conditions warrant further updates. The UTRCA will continue to monitor forecasts and watershed conditions and will provide updates if required.