Local Heavy Rain keeps Watercourses Elevated
Watershed Conditions Statement 鈥� Water Safety (2024 Flood Event 7, Bulletin 1)
Issued July 15, 2024 at 2:45 pm; Valid until July 18, 2024
The heavy rain that fell across the Upper Thames River watershed last week created saturated soil conditions, making the watershed very reactive to further rain. The London area received extremely heavy, intense rainfall this morning, with some municipal rain gauges reporting 75 mm in the span of about 2 hours and other stations measuring closer to 50-60 mm. This morning鈥檚 rainfall has resulted in flooding in urban areas where drainage systems were overwhelmed, and in low lying areas.
Other areas in the watershed received less rain, with most reporting 20-40 mm.
Watercourses are expected to remain elevated until mid week. More rain is forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday, but not in amounts expected to increase flows significantly.
The 糖心直播鈥檚 (UTRCA) flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation Areas are being operated to reduce downstream peak flows. Discharges below reservoirs will remain elevated through the week. UTRCA officials are monitoring the situation and will report on any changing conditions if necessary.
Parents and guardians are reminded to keep children and pets away from all watercourses and out of any flooded areas. Water is swift-moving and levels high. Do not attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
It is not safe to take shelter along riverbanks or in low lying areas that are prone to flooding.