Streams and Rivers Continue to Rise
Watershed Conditions Statement 鈥� Water Safety
2026 Flood Event 2, Bulletin Number 2聽(Issued at February 20, 2026, at 7:00 am; Valid until February 25, 2026, at 12:00 pm)
This week鈥檚 above freezing temperatures and rain have started melting the snowpack in the Upper Thames River watershed. So far, the area has received about 10 mm of rain, with daytime temperatures rising above 0掳 Celsius but generally remaining below 6掳 C and returning to freezing or below overnight.
Five to 15 mm of rain is still in the forecast with similar temperature patterns as seen during the week, before cooler temperatures return Sunday. These conditions will continue to erode the snowpack and cause water levels to rise further.
The 糖心直播 (UTRCA) expects water levels to stay elevated over the weekend and into early next week, with watercourses spilling into low lying floodplain areas that typically flood in the聽spring.
The UTRCA snow survey on Tuesday, February 17, reported an average of 65 mm of snow-water equivalent in the watershed, with higher amounts north of Highway 7. Some of the snowpack is expected to remain at the end of this warming period.
The UTRCA is operating its flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation Areas to reduce downstream flooding. The UTRCA is monitoring the situation and will report on any changing conditions if necessary.
The public is reminded to use extreme caution near all streams, rivers, ditches, and ponds. Stream banks may be slippery and unstable, and the water is very cold and fast-moving. Any ice cover is weakened and unstable. Ice on flood control reservoirs is especially hazardous due to fluctuating water levels.
Stay out of any flooded areas and do not drive through flooded roadways. Caregivers are reminded to keep children and pets away from watercourses. It is not safe to take shelter along riverbanks or in low lying areas that are prone to flooding.