Warm Temperatures and Rain Causing Elevated Water Levels 鈥� Caution Advised near Watercourses听
Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety (2024 Flood Event 10, Bulletin 1)
Issued December 9, 2024 at 1:30 pm; valid until December 13, 2024 at 12:00 pm
The warmer temperatures that began yesterday are starting to melt the watershed-wide, low-density snowpack that was received over last week. The warmer weather is forecast to continue until late tomorrow.听
The water content and depth of the snowpack varied depending upon location. The area near Highway 7 and Highway 23 as well as areas within London received the most snow. Across the watershed, average snow depth and water content are estimated at 28 cm and 31 mm, respectively.听听
While air temperatures are not forecast to go above 5掳C, they are also not forecast to drop below 0掳C overnight. In addition to warming temperatures, up to 10 mm of rain is forecast. These conditions should not deteriorate the snowpack entirely but will melt part of it, causing runoff and elevated watercourses over the week.听听听
No significant flooding is expected with this event. However, river flows in waterways will be higher than normal for this time of year with the potential of flooding in low lying areas and parks.听听听
The 糖心直播鈥檚 (UTRCA) flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation Areas will be operated to reduce downstream peak flows. Water levels will remain elevated through the week, increasing the safety risk around watercourses throughout the watershed. UTRCA officials are monitoring the situation and will report on any changing conditions if necessary.听听
The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution around all local waterways. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with fast-moving cold water, pose a serious hazard. People are reminded to keep children and pets away from all watercourses. 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.听听
UTRCA staff are monitoring river conditions and forecasts. This message will remain in effect until Friday, December 13, 2024.听