As of Sunday, February 18, water levels in rivers and streams throughout the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) Watershed jurisdiction were within normal range for this time of year. This condition changed, however, in the early part of the week when above-normal temperatures and significant rainfall, resulting in elevated watercourse flows.
In a SVCA media release, flooding in traditional low-lying areas should be expected into Tuesday and Wednesday.
With warmer temperatures Monday and the thermometer reaching double-digits on Tuesday combined with heavy rainfall and night time temperatures remaining above freezing, conditions will further accelerate the snowmelt.
Over the SVCA Watershed, which encompasses the Lake Huron shoreline from Saugeen Shores south to Huron-Kinloss, through Brockton, South Bruce, West Grey and includes northern sections of Monto and Wellington North; the water content contained within the snowpack represents approximately 50 mm of water, and this moisture will be contributing to the runoff as the snow melts.
There are some locations where ice jams have been in place for over a month. These jams may likely be moving in response to the change in weather and flow conditions. Locally increased flooding could occur at these locations, due to obstructed flow. As these ice jams move downstream they may become lodged again, create localized flooding at new locations.
Municipal public works staff are advised to monitor roads, bridges, and culverts where flooding in typical areas is likely to occur, but attention should be directed particularly to sites where ice jamming is possible.
The public is reminded to avoid rivers and streams as high flows pose a safety risk, and banks will be icy and slippery.
Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority will continue to monitor river flow and weather conditions. This message is in effect until 11 a.m. on Thursday, February 22, 2018, unless a further message is issued.
