Highlights:
• Forecasts calling for 20 to 35 mm of rain for Tuesday.
• Areas of ponding, standing water and localized flooding could be seen around the watershed.
• Smaller watercourses will rise and some could spill their banks.
• Thames River could see a rise as well in response to the rain
Message:
Weather forecasts are calling for 20 to 35 mm of rain throughout the lower Thames watershed tomorrow (Tuesday).
Although most of the lower Thames watershed is snow-free, there has been some rain recently and the ground is fairly wet. Also, since its winter, there isn’t as much vegetation on the landscape to intercept the rain. As a result, the watershed is likely to respond quickly to the rain which will run off into our ditches, streams and the river.
The amount of rain in the forecasts could create ponding, areas of standing water and localized flooding. This rain will also cause our smaller watercourses to rise, and some could spill their banks into adjacent low-lying areas. If the higher rainfall amounts appear, the LTVCA may need to operate the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel at Chatham and is prepared to do so if necessary.
The Thames River should also be expected to rise in response to the rain. However, at this time, flooding would not be expected. Only some very low-lying areas adjacent to the river would see water rise up into them. Water levels would then be expected to remain elevated through the rest of the week.
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 14th, 2024.
Contact: Jason Wintermute ([email protected])