Message: Elevated water levels

The slow movement of several low-pressure systems during this week has resulted in 60-150 millimeters of rainfall across most of the watershed. Water levels continue to remain high resulting in over-bank flooding into floodplain areas. Rainfall this morning has resulted in water levels remaining extremely high. Water levels are expected to peak over the next 6 hours in the east Sydenham River at Dresden and peak in Bear Creek at Brigden this evening. This will increase the potential for water levels to remain over the top of banks 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 will continue to be impacted by high water levels. These roads include:

·       Sexton Road between Zion Line and Egremont Rd

·       Bethel Road from Egremont Road to Birman Line

·       Zion Line between Nauvoo Rd and London Line

·       Warwick Village Road between Birnam Line and Hickory Creek

·       Hickory Creek Line from Elarton to Forest Road

·       Kingscourt between Confederation Line and Egremont

·       Courtright Road between Nauvoo Road and Buttonwood Drive

·       Moore Line between Waterworks Road and Mandaumin Road

·       Oakdale Road between LaSalle Line and Churchill Line

·       Black Ash Road between Durham Creek Line and Rokeby Line

·       Gypsie Flats Road between Durham Creek Line and Rokeby Line

River banks are expected to be slippery, with the possibility of minor erosion. Residents are reminded to avoid watercourses and flooded areas due to slippery banks and 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 Monday, August 28, 2023, at 9 a.m. unless otherwise updated.