A brief mid-winter thaw coupled with rain is causing water levels in London area rivers and creeks to rise, but not enough to cause any significant flooding.
According to the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) above freezing temperatures, along with up to 10 millimetres of rainfall over the weekend has led to minor runoff. An additional 5 millimetres of rain is forecast to fall Monday night, which could further elevate water levels.
"Much of the snow cover is expected to disappear over the next 24 hours. No significant flooding is anticipated at this time, but rivers and streams may be close to bank full, and spill over in low lying areas," the UTRCA said in a statement released Monday. "Water levels will continue to rise today and into tomorrow, with peaks expected upstream Tuesday, and working their way downstream towards London overnight Tuesday and into Wednesday. Water levels will remain elevated for the remainder of this week."
While water levels are elevated, the conservation authority is reminding people to be very careful near rivers and other waterways. It noted ice is unstable and thin, while streambanks are slippery and the water is very cold. Parents are advised to keep children and pets away from waterways for the time being.
“The UTRCA’s flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood and Pittock Conservation Areas are at seasonal levels and are being operated to reduce any downstream flooding," said the UTRCA.
Temperatures are forecast to fall back before the freezing mark later this week.
