Streams and Rivers expected to rise in response to Rain and Warm Temperatures (media release, March 16, 2023)

The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) expects streams and rivers to rise beginning Friday afternoon and into the weekend, as forecast rain and warmer temperatures melt the snowpack.

Recognizing that March Break is underway and that people may be out and about for St Patrick’s Day events, the UTRCA wants to remind everyone to stay well away from all watercourses and off of frozen water bodies. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard.

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

As water levels rise, it is not safe to take shelter along riverbanks or in low lying areas that are prone to flooding.

The low-pressure system currently moving into the province will bring above freezing temperatures and 20-25 mm of precipitation by tomorrow afternoon. A watershed wide snow survey conducted Wednesday measured an average of 70 mm of water equivalent, ranging from 100 mm north of Stratford, to 75 mm in London and Woodstock. The incoming weather conditions will begin to melt this snowpack. Water levels in streams and rivers will respond to the runoff from the rain and melting snow.

The UTRCA expects water levels to remain above normal over the weekend. Serious flooding is not expected at this time.

The UTRCA’s flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation Areas are at seasonal levels and will be operated to reduce downstream flooding if required.

Contact: Teresa Hollingsworth, Manager, Community and Corporate Services