A rain system moving across Southern Ontario is raising concerns about flooding throughout the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) and Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) watershed.
Rain began falling earlier today. Updated forecasts suggest that temperatures could climb to around 10°C overnight, bringing with them 40 to 50 millimeters of rain, with even higher totals possible if thunderstorms develop.
That rain, combined with rapidly melting snow, is what has officials worried.
River levels are expected to rise above their banks, spilling into low-lying, undeveloped floodplain areas. While widespread residential flooding isn’t guaranteed, localized flooding is likely.
Water levels are expected to peak on Monday and continue overnight into Tuesday, with larger rivers staying high through New Year’s Day.
As many people continue to enjoy the holiday break, officials are emphasizing the importance of water safety. All ice should be considered unsafe, and residents are urged to stay away from rivers, creeks, and drainage channels. Fast-moving water, slippery banks hidden by snow, and extremely cold water temperatures can all pose serious risks.
The conservations will continue monitoring the conditions and will update the warning as needed.
