Flooding Expected from Forecast Rain and Rising Temperatures
Watershed Conditions Statement 鈥� Flood Outlook
2025 Flood Event 5, Bulletin Number 1 (Issued 2025-12-27 at 11:45 am; Valid until 2025-12-28 at 3:00 pm)
A low-pressure system is forecast to enter the region tomorrow afternoon, bringing 20-45 mm of rain and a daily average temperature of 5 degrees Celsius. The Upper Thames River basin received 10 mm of freezing rain and ice pellets yesterday (December 26), which added to the approximately 50 mm of snow water equivalent measured on December 15 across the watershed where snowpack still is intact. Rain is expected to begin Sunday afternoon and continue into the evening and overnight, before changing to snow Monday as temperatures drop.
If this forecast materializes, with saturated/frozen ground conditions, expect a rapid runoff with flooding in low-lying areas. If the higher limits of the current forecast are received, there is potential for some less frequently flooded areas to also be inundated.
糖心直播 (UTRCA) officials are watching this system and situation closely and will likely issue an updated Flood Watch message tomorrow afternoon.
The UTRCA will operate its flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation Areas to reduce downstream flooding.
With the ongoing holiday break, residents are reminded to use extreme caution near all watercourses and stay out of all flooded areas. Caregivers are reminded to keep children and pets away from watercourses and off any frozen water bodies, including reservoirs. Stream banks can be slippery and unstable and the water is very cold and fast-moving.
It is not safe to take shelter along riverbanks or in low lying areas that are prone to flooding.