Highlights:

• Ice jam at Lighthouse Cove remains in place.
• Water levels on the Thames River downstream of Chatham are very near the top of the dykes.
• Municipal workers are involved in emergency repairs at some locations.
• Some water level rise is still expected throughout the day if the jam holds.
• Behavior of the ice jam and its impacts on water levels is highly unpredictable.

Message:

The ice jam that formed last night at Lighthouse Cove remains in place. This is causing water level upstream to rise as the water is having problems pushing through. Water levels along the Thames River downstream of Chatham are very near the top of the flood control works (dykes) in some locations. Surges in water levels have caused slight overtopping in some areas. Leaks have been reported in multiple locations and municipal staff are present and working on emergency repairs. Significant flooding has not been observed at this time.

Since the ice jam remains in place and peak flows from upstream have not yet reached the jam area, some water levels can still be expected to rise throughout the day as long as the ice jam holds. Temperatures are well below freezing and expected to remain so through the weekend. If the ice does not move out into the lake shortly, it will likely freeze in place due to the cold temperatures.

Residents of Lighthouse Cove and other downstream communities should pay attention to local conditions and watch out for flooding. Residents should contact the municipality for the latest information and remain prepared. Chatham-Kent 519-360-1998, Lakeshore 519-728-2488.

Flooding will still continue in a number of low lying areas within the city of Chatham. Water levels in the city of Chatham will continue to rise but are not expected to rise as high as was seen yesterday. The LTVCA continues to operating the 6th Street Dam and Pumping Station to protect the south end of the city on McGregor Creek from flooding.

People should take extra caution and avoid the river, ditches, and streams. The combination of slippery banks, broken or unstable ice and fast moving cold water can be dangerous. Standing water can also present its own unseen hazards. Children and pets and livestock should be kept away from the water and ice.

Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update this advisory if necessary.

This message will be in effect until February 10th, 2019.

Contact: LTVCA Administration Office (519-354-7310) regarding this message. After hours number 519-351-2240.