WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY
(Issued December 29, 2019 at 4:00 p.m.; Valid until January 3, 2020)

Widespread precipitation is expected across southern Ontario during the day on Sunday and into Monday. This system is forecast to potentially bring up to 20 mm of liquid precipitation over the next 18 hours to much of the Upper Thames River watershed.

Ground conditions are generally wet and/or frozen. The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) notes that while no significant flooding is anticipated with this event, higher flows in local waterways will increase the risk of flooding in low-lying areas typically prone to flooding. River flows will remain higher than normal for several days, increasing the safety risk around rivers and streams throughout the watershed.

The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution around all local waterways. 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.

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 if necessary.

See Thames River water level information

Contact: Teresa Hollingsworth, Manager, Community & Corporate Services