Highlights:
- Additional 20mm – 30mm precipitation anticipated across the watershed
- Current high water levels will experience additional flow over next 24 to 48 hours
- Possible road closures anticipated
Current:
Water levels on the Sydenham River and its tributaries continue to be very high as a result of significant rainfall over the past week notably in the lower reaches of the watershed closer to Wallaceburg. High water levels are currently being recorded in the upper North Branch of the Sydenham near Petrolia as well as on the East Branch near Florence with near bank full conditions being reported. Recorded levels are increasing through the remainder of the watershed and are expected to continue to rise throughout today and into Friday.
Short Term:
Significant additional precipitation is forecast for today and tomorrow with an anticipated 25mm to 30mm expected over the next 24 hours. This will result in consistently high water levels in addition to the existing high flows experienced throughout this week. This is expected to result in potentially dangerous conditions as a result of sudden changes and fast moving flows over the next 24 to 48 hours. Drains, floodplains and smaller watercourses in upstream areas will experience localized flooding in some areas. Conditions are anticipated to moderate into the weekend once flows return to normal conditions.
Municipal officials and road superintendents should monitor local conditions.
Municipal emergency response staff and road superintendents should monitor local conditions closely.
Residents are reminded to avoid watercourses and flooded areas due to slippery banks and swift moving water. Parents in particular are urged to keep their children away from floodplain areas.
The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority will monitor the flood condition of the watersheds in the region and will provide warnings to municipal officials and media in the event conditions develop which could result in the potential of flooding.
This message will remain in effect until Saturday, April 2nd 2016 unless otherwise updated.
