Highlights:

• 5 – 20 mm of rainfall last week
• No additional precipitation this week
• Water levels gradually falling
• River ice continues to deteriorate

River flows continue to be high with some localized flooding into floodplain areas. Levels are beginning to moderate and are expected to continue to fall slowly across the watershed. Temperatures have now fallen below freezing and are expected to remain there over the next week and no additional snowmelt is expected to enter the Sydenham River.

Water levels are expected to remain high for the next few days. Ice conditions have deteriorated throughout the watershed with significant thickness in the lower reaches of the Sydenham River. When this ice breaks up, ice jams are very possible and minor flooding is occurring as a result. Flooding is expected to be minor in nature, and traditional floodplain areas are expected to be inundated with water for the next few days.

The Conservation Authority continues to monitor watershed conditions and will issue advisories should flood issues arise. Residents are reminded to avoid watercourses and flooded areas due to slippery banks, cold and swift moving water and deteriorating ice. Parents in particular are urged to keep their children away from floodplain areas.

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 and deteriorating ice. 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 January 15, 2018 unless otherwise updated.