Thames River Running Fast and High: Public Reminded to Stay Away from Watercourses (media release, September 23, 2021)

Widespread, heavy rain has fallen over the Upper Thames River watershed since Tuesday evening, with a substantial portion of the rain coming on Wednesday evening. The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) reports that much of the North Thames River watershed, including St. Marys, Stratford, and London, received more than 100 mm of rain. The South Thames watershed, including Woodstock and Ingersoll, received approximately 60-75 mm.

Ditches, creeks and streams rose throughout the day Wednesday and many have reached bank full conditions or spilled their banks. Many low lying areas and parklands are being inundated, such as the St. Marys Flats, and Harris and Gibbons Parks in London.

Smaller watercourses throughout the watershed generally reached peak flows this morning. The North Thames River through Mitchell and St. Marys also reached peak flows this morning and is slowly beginning to recede. The Thames River in London is expected to remain near peak levels throughout today and into the night. The UTRCA expects the Thames River to remain elevated into the weekend.

The UTRCA’s flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe (London), Wildwood (St. Marys), and Pittock (Woodstock) Conservation Areas are being operated to reduce downstream flooding. UTRCA officials are monitoring the situation, and will report on changing conditions as necessary.

The UTRCA reminds the public to exercise extreme caution and stay away from all watercourses. Do not drive through any flooded roadways or walk into flooded areas. Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from all creeks, rivers and water bodies.

See Thames River flow and water level information

Contact: Eleanor Heagy, Communications Specialist