The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority has issued a Flood Outlook/Water Safety message in anticipation of changing weather conditions.
With snow expected to transition to rain throughout Tuesday, residents are advised to exercise caution near watercourses.
The low-pressure system is expected bring a combination of snow and rain, with a shift to primarily rain anticipated by late Tuesday morning. Rainfall totals are forecasted to be between 20-30 millimetres, with the potential for localized areas, particularly in the southern region, to experience amounts exceeding 30 mm.
Due to already saturated ground conditions, rapid runoff is expected, leading to a swift rise in watercourse levels overnight. While major flooding is not anticipated, some watercourses may exceed bank full, causing minor flooding primarily within low-lying undeveloped floodplain areas.
Residents are urged to exercise caution near creeks and rivers, keeping children and pets away from waterways. The combination of slippery and unstable streambanks, along with extremely cold water temperatures, poses additional hazards.
More information is available at www.abca.ca.
