News Release
For immediate release
St. Thomas – Environment Canada is monitoring a Colorado low pressure system that is expected to move through southwestern Ontario this evening and continue through Monday. A rainfall warning and special weather statement is in place for the southwest region. The current forecast calls for accumulated rainfall totals of 30 to 50 mm along the northern Lake Erie shoreline before the system moves out of the area.
“Recent rainfall over the past several weeks has saturated the ground and made the watershed more susceptible to runoff, however, serious flooding is not expected,” says Jennifer Dow, water conservation supervisor for the Kettle Creek Conservation Authority. “There is the potential for nuisance flooding in low-lying areas, and creeks and streams may rise quickly in response to the runoff and approach bank full conditions.”
Watershed areas that receive higher rainfall amounts have a heightened risk for flash and localized flooding. In addition, intense rainfall has the potential to cause overland flow and scouring of fields, ponding in low-lying areas, roadways and agricultural fields, and minor flooding into natural floodplain areas and parks that traditionally flood in the spring. “Residents can prepare for this rain event by making sure their storm drains are clear of leaves and debris, and by paying attention to their local conditions,” cautions Dow. “It is also a good reminder to move valuables out of the floodplain and make sure boats are properly secured in advance of the forecast.”
Residents along Kettle Creek, are advised to carefully monitor their local conditions and take appropriate action should conditions change. KCCA is reminding parents to keep children and pets away from creeks and river banks, flood plain areas and ponds. Banks can be very slippery and unstable, and creeks can be fast flowing and cold. Standing water can also present unseen hazards. Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from all waterways.
KCCA staff will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as warranted. This Watershed Conditions Statement—Flood Outlook will remain in effect until Tuesday, October 26 at 4:30 PM. For further updates, log on to www.kettlecreekconservation.on.ca or connect with Kettle Creek Conservation Authority socially on Facebook and Twitter @KettleCreekCA.
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Jennifer Dow
Water Conservation Supervisor
519-631-1270 x228
The Kettle Creek Conservation Authority issues three levels of messages:
- Watershed Conditions Statement (Previously High Water Safety Bulletin): a general notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding. There are two variations of these:
- Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected
- 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 (Previously Flood Advisory): Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
- Flood Warning (No change): 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.