Environment and Climate Change Canada Issues Severe Thunderstorm Watch (flood bulletin, July 26-28, 2023)
WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – FLOOD OUTLOOK
Issued July 26, 2023 at 3:40 pm; valid until July 28, 2023
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for London – Middlesex. The cold front that is moving into the area this evening is forecast to bring 25-35 mm of rain. Thunderstorm activity has the potential to increase the rainfall to 50-75 mm.
The Upper Thames River watershed has already received 100-190 mm of rain since the beginning of July, depending on location. As a result, the ground is fairly saturated and the potential for runoff is increased.
Localized flooding is possible in areas that receive heavier and higher rain amounts. If the higher rainfall amounts become more widespread, flooding is possible in low lying floodplain areas.
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority’s flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation Areas will be operated to reduce downstream flooding.
Parents and caregivers are reminded 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.