Wet Weather Expected – Caution Advised Around Watercourses
Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook (Issued January 8, 2024; valid until January 15, 2024)
A series of low-pressure systems are forecast to enter the province and slowly track across the region over the next five days. Weather forecasts are calling for 20 to 35 mm of rain, along with some snow, for the Upper Thames River watershed tomorrow (Tuesday) with more rain and some snow expected later in the week.
The watershed is mostly snow-free, and the ground is relatively saturated. As a result, the watershed is likely to respond quickly to the rain which will run off into ditches, streams and the Thames River.
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) does not expect significant flooding at this time; however, water levels and flows will be higher than normal for this time of year and there is potential for flooding of low-lying areas that are typically prone to flooding. If the rain forecasts materialize, water levels over the next few days are expected to reach similar levels as experienced during the last week of December.
The UTRCA reminds the public that banks next to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Standing water can also present dangers. Children and pets should be kept away from waterways and flooded areas. It is not safe to take shelter along riverbanks or in low lying areas that are prone to flooding.
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.