Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook
Message: Rain and Melting Snow Expected to Raise Water Levels
Rain today (Thursday) and Saturday paired with warm weather over the next several days will cause water levels in local rivers and streams to rise.
A weather system is moving through the area, bringing with it today and over the weekend 10 to 25 mm of rain and temperatures well above freezing. Most of the rain is forecast for this afternoon and late Friday through to Saturday afternoon. Temperatures are forecast to reach 10C on Friday, remain warm overnight, and then climb to a high of 18C by Saturday afternoon. It is anticipated that this will melt most, if not all, of the remaining snow in the watershed. St. Clair Conservation Authority (SCRCA) staff conducted a snow survey on Monday, March 2, which reported an average of 5mm of water content in snowpack across the watershed.
Ground is saturated and has low ability to soak up water. Rain and snowmelt will quickly run off into local watercourses. Water is expected to overflow into low-lying areas that usually flood in the spring. Some watercourses have started to show signs of rising. SCRCA expects water levels to continue to rise gradually and remain elevated into next week.
Municipal staff should monitor local conditions closely, with special attention to known local drainage problem areas. Many rural areas have had drifting snow, which can fill in ditches and smaller watercourses, blocking drainage during a runoff event and increasing flooding potential.
Individuals are reminded to avoid watercourses and flooded areas due to dangerous conditions, slippery banks, unsafe ice cover and cold, swift-moving water. Children and pets should be kept away from the water.
The Conservation Authority continues to monitor watershed conditions and will issue advisories to municipalities and media should flood issues arise. Municipal emergency response staff and road superintendents should monitor local conditions closely.
This message will remain in effect until 12 p.m. Tuesday, March 10th, 2026 unless otherwise updated.
