Rain and Warm Temperatures Causing Water Levels to Rise
Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety
2025 Flood Event 4, Bulletin Number 1 (Issued at 10:00 am on Dec. 19; Valid until Dec. 22, 2025 at 12 noon)
Above zero temperatures and rain over the past two days is causing water levels across the Upper Thames River watershed to rise. Approximately 10 – 20 mm of rain was received, with above zero temperatures as high as 8 deg C measured yesterday. The snowpack across the watershed contained about 50 mm of water equivalent measured in a snow survey conducted on Monday.
While these conditions are not enough to deplete the entire snowpack, some of it is beginning to run off, causing water levels to rise. Expect water levels to continue to rise throughout the day, and to remain elevated on the weekend. No serious flooding is anticipated at this time, and air temperatures are forecast to remain largely below zero for the next few days.
The UTRCA's flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation Areas are being operated to reduce downstream flooding. UTRCA officials are monitoring the situation and will report on any changing conditions if necessary.
Residents are reminded to use extreme caution near all watercourses and stay out of all flooded areas. Stream banks can be slippery and unstable, and the water is cold and fast-moving. Parents and caregivers are reminded to keep children and pets away from all watercourses and off of frozen water bodies.
It is not safe to take shelter along riverbanks or in low lying areas that are prone to flooding.