Highlights:

• Rainfall over the last 48 hours between 50 and 70 mm
• Localized flooding in the region
• Road closures
• Extremely high water levels

Current Conditions :
The slow movement of several low pressure systems earlier this week has resulted in 50-70 millimeters of rainfall across most of the watershed. Water levels continue to remain extremely high resulting in over-bank flooding into floodplain areas. Water levels are expected to peak over the next 12 to 24 hours in the east Sydenham River at Dresden and peak in Bear Creek at Brigden by this evening. This will increase the potential for water levels to remain over the top of bank in many flood prone areas. Localized flooding will continue to expand into low lying areas, mostly agricultural floodplain and parkland areas.

Roads that were identified as closed earlier this week will continue to be impacted by high water levels. These roads include:
St. Clair Township:
– Pretty Road near Stanley Road

Enniskillen Township:
– Plowing Match Road
– Fairweather Road

Water levels in the lower areas are anticipated to begin falling tomorrow with no additional precipitation expected. Additional roads may be impacted later today as flows peak in many areas of the watershed. The W. Darcy McKeough Floodway is on operational standby and may be activated to reduce any potential residential flooding in Wallaceburg should the operating conditions be reached.

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, cold and swift moving water as well as extensive debris moving downstream within the watercourses. 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 Monday May 8th, 2017 unless otherwise updated.