Highlights:

• Areas in the lower Thames River watershed have seen 5-20 mm of rain since yesterday morning.
• The Thames River is expected to rise and flood the river flats from Delaware down to Chatham.
• In Chatham, flooding is expected to be limited to the sidewalk along the river in the downtown, Simcoe Lane, and other low-lying areas adjacent to the river that tend to flood frequently.

Message:

Over the last two weeks, the snowpack has been melting out of the upper Thames River watershed. This has led to above normal water levels throughout the lower Thames River watershed. Since yesterday morning, areas around the lower Thames watershed have seen between 5 and 20 mm of rain. Forecasts suggest that the region could see another few millimetres of rain due to scattered showers throughout the day.

In some areas that saw the higher rainfall amounts, there could be ponding, standing water and localized flooding. However, most of the smaller watercourses that drain into the Thames River, or the lakes, are expected to remain within their banks.

Water levels on the Thames River, which are already above normal, will rise in response to the rain. The river is expected to rise and flood of the low-lying river flats adjacent to the river from Delaware down to Chatham. The LTVCA does not expect to have to operate the 6th St. Dam in Chatham. Flooding in the city of Chatham is expected to be limited to the sidewalk along the river in the downtown, Simcoe Lane, and other low-lying areas adjacent to the river that tend to flood frequently. Water levels on the river should be expected to remain above normal late into the week as water from the upper Thames River watershed works its way downstream.

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 and pets and livestock should be kept away from the water.

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

This message will be in effect until March 21, 2025.

 

Contact: Jason Wintermute ([email protected])