Update: Watershed Receives Forecast Rainfall – More Expected (flood bulletin, March 31-April 4, 2023)
WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – FLOOD OUTLOOK
Issued March 31, 2023 at 14:45; Valid until April 4, 2023
The Colorado low that moved into the region early this morning has brought 15-20 mm of rain to the Upper Thames River basin so far. Up to an additional 20 mm of rain is forecast between Friday afternoon and Saturday afternoon. Thunderstorms are also possible and would result in higher precipitation amounts.
The accumulated snowpack that was in the watershed melted prior to this event.
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) expects local water levels to rise Friday afternoon and into Saturday, and to remain above normal over the weekend and into next week. Serious flooding is not expected. Rivers and streams may rise to levels near 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. UTRCA officials are monitoring the situation and will report any changing conditions.
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.