Yesterday, the Lower Thames watershed received between 40 and 50 mm of rain.  Areas in the Upper Thames watershed received up to 25 mm.  While additional rainfall had been predicted for today, no significant amounts appeared.

Local watercourses rose and many reached bank full, some even spilling their banks.  All of the smaller local watercourses in the watershed have peaked and water levels are now dropping.  The Indian-McGregor Creek Diversion Channel began operating last night and is currently bypassing water around the south end of the City of Chatham to protect it from flooding.

The Thames River rose in response to the local rainfall and has peaked in the Dutton area.  Areas downstream of there, like Thamesville and Chatham, would be expected to peak overnight.  Some flooding has or may occur in the very low lying river flat areas adjacent to the river.  The sidewalk along the river in downtown Chatham can be expected to flood over later today.  Water levels will remain elevated throughout the weekend as the water from the Upper Thames passes down the river.

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 3rd, 2017.

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