WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY
Issued February 22, 2019 at 3:30 pm; Valid until February 26, 2019

The Upper Thames River watershed is forecast to receive up to 20 mm of rain over the weekend, combined with above freezing temperatures. There is currently an estimated 40 – 50 mm of water equivalent in the snowpack, on average. The snowpack will consolidate over the weekend and begin to release water, and will continue to do so until below zero temperatures return later Sunday evening.

The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) does not expect major flooding, but streams may rise to levels to those experienced at the beginning of February and will remain elevated over the early part of the upcoming week. Flood coordinators should monitor flood prone areas as low-lying flood plains may become inundated.

The public is reminded to exercise extreme caution and stay off all water bodies. Any ice cover will be weakened and unstable. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses and off of frozen water bodies.

The UTRCA’s flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood and Pittock Conservation Areas are at seasonal levels and will be operated to reduce any downstream flooding. UTRCA officials are monitoring the situation, and will report on any changing conditions if necessary.

See Thames River water level information

Contact: Steve Sauder, Marketing Specialist

Types of Flood Bulletins:

Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety — Issued during periods of minor flooding to report on general watershed conditions to flood coordinators, and to remind the general public of general river safety issues

Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook — Issued to provide early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions that could result in high runoff

Flood Watch — issued when the potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities

Flood Warning — issued when flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities