SVCA warns of minor flooding, water safety due to warm weather

The recent warm weather, with temperatures well above average, has resulted in a gradual melting of the snowpack and slowly rising river and stream levels in the Saugeen Watershed.

This has prompted the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) to issue a statement, warning of minor flooding and water safety.

The forecast is for up to 25 millimetres (mm) of rain Friday, which will further increase water levels, states the SVCA. Significant flooding is not expected, but flooding in traditional low-lying floodplain areas is likely to occur. River ice was flushed out of the drainage systems earlier so ice jams are not anticipated. Cooler weather is predicted to return Sunday, although water levels will still remain above normal.

For safety reasons, the public is advised to stay well away from rivers and streams. River banks can be wet and slippery. In particular, parents are reminded to keep children away from local waterways. While the air temperature may be well above normal, the water temperature is are still just above freezing which can cause hypothermia and death in a few minutes.

The SVCA will continue to monitor watershed river flow and weather conditions. This message is in effect until 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 25, unless a further message is issued.