SVCA, MVCA issue watershed conditions statements

The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) has issued watershed conditions statement.

Total precipitation amounts of up to 85 millimetres (mm) are forecast for the Saugeen watershed from Friday to Monday. Precipitation is expected to fall as a mix of rain and freezing rain.

This precipitation will increase water levels in watercourses, and may create localized flooding in low-lying areas as ground conditions are already saturated.

The snow pack is depleted in most areas, but small amounts of snow remain in some wooded and sheltered areas. There is no river ice present, so ice jams are not a concern. No major flooding is expected.

For safety reasons, the public is advised to stay well away from rivers and streams. River banks can be wet and slippery, and water temperatures are still very cold.

SVCA staff will continue to monitor watershed river flow and weather conditions. This message is in effect until 4:30 pm Tuesday, April 17, unless a further message is issued.

Meanwhile, the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) has also issued a watershed conditions statement.

The approaching low-pressure system is expected to move across the Maitland and Nine Mile River watersheds Friday night. This weather system will be slow-moving, bringing with it the potential for a mix of snow, rain and freezing rain over the next three days. Precipitation totals from Friday to Sunday are expected to be in the range of 70-80 mm.

The rate of run-off and the extent of flooding will be determined largely by rainfall and temperature patterns over the weekend. Based on the current weather forecast, major flooding is not anticipated at this time. Flooding will be limited to traditional low-lying flood plain areas.

Water levels in head-water streams (Lucknow, Harriston, Listowel) are expected to peak on Monday. Water levels downstream in the larger rivers (Wingham, Benmiller) are expected to peak on Tuesday.

Residents are reminded to stay away from all watercourses. Extremely cold and fast-moving water, combined with slippery and unstable stream banks, will create hazardous conditions near all waterways.

This message will remain in effect until 1 p.m., Wednesday, April 18, unless local conditions warrant further updates. The MVCA will continue to monitor watershed conditions and will provide an update if required.