Streams and Rivers Rise in Response to Rain (media release, March 31, 2023)
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) expects water levels in local streams and rivers to rise Friday afternoon and into Saturday, in response to the rainfall. The watershed has received 15-20 mm of rain since early this morning, and forecasts call for an additional 15-20 mm of rain by tomorrow evening.
Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from all watercourses. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard.
As water levels rise, it is not safe to take shelter along riverbanks or in low lying areas that are prone to flooding.
Water levels will remain above normal over the weekend and into next week. Serious flooding is not expected and levels should remain below those experienced last weekend.
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.