Spring Melt Continues (flood bulletin, March 4-9, 2021)

WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY
Issued March 4 at 10:00 am; Valid until March 8, 2021

A snow survey conducted by Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) staff on March 1^st indicated reduced water content from the previous, mid-February survey. The Upper Thames River basin contains an average of 40 mm of water content, with slightly higher totals in the north than in the south portion of the watershed.

The spring melt is underway as the snow pack consolidated last week with the warm temperatures and began to melt over the past weekend. Additional warming and melting are expected today, followed by below freezing temperatures until Sunday. Daytime high temperatures are forecast to approach double digits early next week, with overnight lows remaining above freezing. The seven day forecast does not include any significant rain.

The UTRCA’s water resources engineers expect streams and rivers across the watershed to remain slightly elevated over the next few days and into the weekend. As temperatures increase early next week, most of the remaining snowpack should melt, causing water levels in streams and ponds to rise further.

Serious flooding is not anticipated at this time, although low-lying flood plain areas may be inundated in some areas. Localized flooding may also occur in areas with poor drainage or along smaller local watercourses blocked with ice and snow. The UTRCA expects a typical spring runoff to occur next week.

The UTRCA’s flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation Areas are at seasonal levels and will be operated to reduce any downstream flooding. UTRCA officials are monitoring the situation, and will report on any changing conditions as necessary.

The public is reminded to exercise extreme caution and stay away from all water bodies. Any ice cover is weakened and unstable. Flood control reservoirs are especially hazardous due to fluctuating water levels. 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 and off of frozen water bodies.

See current Thames River watershed water levels and flow 

Find out about types of Flood Bulletins

Contact: Teresa Hollingsworth, Manager, Community & Corporate Services