The Lower Thames watershed has received about 30 mm of rainfall spread out over the last week. Weather forecasts are calling for a warm weekend without any rain until Monday.

These small but recurring rainfall events have kept water levels elevated since last weekend. With saturated ground conditions, the last few small rainfalls have caused a rise in water levels on our smaller local watercourses. All of the smaller local watercourses in the watershed have peaked and water levels are now dropping.

The Thames River has also risen in response to the rainfall. Water levels on the Thames River are still rising throughout the watershed and should be expected to remain slightly elevated throughout the weekend as the water works its way downstream. Water levels in the City of London have exceeded those observed last weekend so those areas through Middlesex and Elgin Counties should also expect water levels to exceed those seen last weekend. The Thamesville through Chatham stretch should see water levels closer to what was observed last weekend. These water levels are typically not associated with flooding except in the most low-lying areas. For example, the sidewalk along the river in downtown Chatham could be expected to flood over the weekend.

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.

Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update this advisory if necessary.
This message will be in effect until April 10th, 2017.

Contact: Jason Wintermute (519- 354-7310 x227) regarding this message.