Highlights:
• Broken ice has now made its way down to Lighthouse Cove and has stopped without pushing into the lake. There is a risk that this could cause flooding in Lighthouse Cove and other downstream communities.
• Water levels have started to drop in the city of Chatham but may raise again if the ice jam reforms.
• Flooding as a result of ice jamming can be very unpredictable.
Message:
Last night an ice jam formed downstream of the city of Chatham around Prairie Siding. Late this afternoon, the jam let loose and the ice began to move downstream. The leading edge of the broken ice has made its way into the community of Lighthouse Cove and has now stopped just before entering the lake.
It is not yet clear whether the ice in Lighthouse Cove will jam and cause flooding in the community or whether river flows will pass safely underneath. Temperatures are forecasted to fall well below freezing overnight and last 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. Flooding as a result of ice jamming can be very unpredictable. Residents of Lighthouse Cove and other downstream communities should pay attention to local conditions in case flooding occurs.
Flooding will still continue in a number of low lying areas within the city of Chatham. Should the ice in Lighthouse Cove jam up, water levels in the city of Chatham could begin to rise again. However, they would not be expected to rise as high as was seen earlier today. 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.