Stay Clear of Watercourses after Heavy Rain
The heavy rain that fell across the Upper Thames River watershed last week created saturated soil conditions, making the watershed very reactive to further rain. The London area received extremely heavy, intense rainfall this morning, with some municipal rain gauges reporting 75 mm in the span of about 2 hours and other stations measuring closer to 50-60 mm. This morning’s rainfall has resulted in flooding in urban areas where drainage systems were overwhelmed, and in low lying areas.
Other areas in the watershed received less rain, with most reporting 20-40 mm.
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) expects watercourses expected to remain elevated until mid week. More rain is forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday, but not in amounts expected to increase flows significantly.
The UTRCA is operating its flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation Areas to reduce downstream peak flows. Discharges below the reservoirs will remain elevated through the week.
Parents and guardians are reminded to keep children and pets away from all watercourses and out of any flooded areas. Water is swift-moving and levels high. 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.