Highlights:

• Region has received 15 to 25 mm of rain over the last 48 hours and warm temperatures have added snowmelt.
• Forecasts calling for 10 to 15 mm of rain tomorrow as well, mostly in the evening and overnight.
• Areas of ponding, standing water, and localized flooding seen around the watershed.
• Smaller watercourses are rising, and some could spill their banks.
• Thames River will rise as well in response to the rain.

Message:

A series of weather systems has moved through the region over the last few days bringing rain and temperatures above freezing. Over the last 48 hours, most of the region has received between 15 and 25 mm of rain. These rains and warmer temperatures have also melted the snowpack which has added to the amount of water running off the land into the region’s watercourses. Weather forecasts suggest the region could see another 10 to 15 mm of rain tomorrow, mostly in the evening and overnight.

The rain and snowmelt we have seen over the last few days, especially the rain today, has created ponding, areas of standing water, and localized flooding. The rain forecast for tomorrow will cause this to continue for another few days. Smaller watercourses in the region are responding to the rain and snowmelt and are on the rise. Ice and snow in the smaller watercourses could also lead to blockages. Some could spill their banks into adjacent low-lying areas. The LTVCA anticipates having to operate the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel at Chatham and is prepared.

The Thames River should also be expected to rise in response to the rain. In the lower Thames watershed, river levels are already slightly higher than usual for this time of the year. At this point in time, it is too early to determine whether the Thames River will rise into the river flats. Significant flooding is not expected.

People should take extra caution and avoid the river, ditches, and streams. The combination of slippery banks and fast-moving cold water can be dangerous. Standing water can also present its own unseen hazards. Children, pets, and livestock should be kept away from the water. As water levels rise, it is not safe to take shelter along riverbanks or in low-lying areas that are prone to flooding.

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

This message will be in effect until January 29th.

Contact: Jason Wintermute ([email protected])