The Maitland Valley Conservation Authority has issued a Flood Warning for the Nine Mile River watershed. This includes Lucknow and surrounding areas in the Township of Huron-Kinloss as well as the Nine Mile River area through the Township of Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh and the community of Port Albert. 

Flooding is imminent or already occurring in these areas.

An intense band of heavy thunderstorms moved through the region early this morning, bringing 40 to 60mm of rainfall in a corridor from Goderich to Lucknow. Headwater areas of Lucknow are currently at flood stage. Riverine areas downstream of Lucknow throughout the Township of Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh and the community of Port Albert may experience flooding greater than what was observed during the 2008 and 2018 events.

Smaller streams and drainage systems along the Lake Huron shoreline are also at risk. Flooding and washouts of smaller channels and municipal drains may occur, and some shoreline gullies may experience severe erosion or localized slope failure. Highway 21 is currently closed between Amberley Rd. and Blyth Rd. in Huron County due to flooding.

Residents in low-lying areas near the Nine Mile River should monitor conditions closely and be prepared for possible flooding. Rural roads are at high risk of washouts, and fast-moving water and flooded roadways may create hazardous conditions. Residents are reminded to never drive through flood waters.

This message is in effect until 10:00 a.m. on Thursday March 12, 2026.

Residents in low-lying areas of Lucknow should monitor conditions closely and be prepared for possible flooding. Rural roads are at high risk of washouts, and fast-moving water and flooded roadways may create hazardous conditions. Never drive through flood waters!

A Flood Warning also remains in place for the Boyle Drain area in the Municipalities of North Perth and Huron East, as well as along the Middle Maitland River between Brussels and Wingham in the Municipality of Morris – Turnberry.

Contact:

Jeff Winzenried, Flood Forecasting Supervisor
519-357-0890
jwinzenried@mvca.on.ca

Types of Flood Messages:

Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety – General watershed conditions are being assessed for high runoff potential that could lead to flooding, and to remind the public of general river safety issues.

Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion

Flood Watch – Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take action to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.