Maitland Conservation has issued a Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety for all municipalities in the Maitland and Nine Mile River watersheds.
A succession of multiple low-pressure systems are continuing to track through Southern Ontario, bringing rainfall and mild temperatures to the Maitland and Nine Mile watersheds. Yesterday’s (Wednesday) system brought 10 – 15 mm of rain. Rain and mild temperatures are forecasted to continue today (Thursday) with the passing of another system bringing an additional 15 – 20 mm of rain tonight through early Friday morning.
This week’s rainfall and mild temperatures has the potential to melt much of the snowpack, which holds upwards of 30 – 40 mm of water equivalent. A substantial melt would result in strong runoff and quickly elevate water levels in rivers and streams throughout the watershed.
Although significant flooding is not expected at this time, there is potential for watercourses to approach or exceed bankfull conditions resulting in minor ponding in typical low-lying areas. River ice will weaken and can be expected to breakup as water levels rise throughout the watershed. Ice jamming remains a possibility, the locations of which are unpredictable and can result in localized flooding in non-traditional areas. So far substantial river ice has only been observed extending from the mouth of the Maitland River in Goderich upstream through Saltford. There are currently no signs of significant jamming, but Maitland Conservation will continue to monitor conditions.
Municipal officials are encouraged to check drainage systems and monitor low-lying and flood prone roads. We remind people that slippery and unstable streambanks and cold-water temperatures will create hazardous conditions around all watercourses. River ice will be extremely unstable and dangerous.
Maitland Conservation is monitoring watershed conditions and will provide an update if warranted.
This message is in effect until the afternoon of Monday January 29, 2024.
Contact:
Jeff Winzenried, Flood Forecasting Supervisor
[email protected]
Media Contact:
Jayne Thompson, Communications Coordinator
[email protected]
519-335-3557 ext. 226 Cell: 519-357-6670
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.