​SVCA warns of possible flooding in Saugeen Watershed

The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) has issued a watershed statement, warning of extremely hazardous conditions and possible flooding, due to considerable snow-melt and run-off into local watercourses.

Forecasts indicate a multi-day warming period, beginning Wednesday (March 4) and continuing through to Wednesday, March 11. Daytime highs are expected to range between seven and 15 degrees Celsius during this period, with some nights remaining above zero degrees Celsius. Forecasts also advise that 10-20 millimetres (mm) of rain is possible overnight Friday, March 6, with the possibility of more rain early to mid-next week.

Similar to last spring, an above-average snowpack with high water content (70-160 mm of water equivalent) is present throughout the entire watershed. Substantial melting is expected, which will contribute large volumes of run-off to local watercourses. While river ice has begun to melt and thin, the potential for ice jams remains possible in historically prone areas.

Flooding of traditional low-lying areas is expected. More substantial flooding may be possible, depending on actual temperature patterns and rainfall amounts. Municipal and county staff are encouraged to clear culverts, storm drains, and drainage pathways, where possible, and to monitor problem areas and prepare to close low-lying roads.

Residents are encouraged to secure property around watercourses and remain alert to changing river conditions. The public is also reminded to exercise extreme caution near all watercourses. Stream flows are expected to become strong and hazardous, and riverbanks may be unstable due to melting snow. Ice conditions also remain unpredictable and should be considered unsafe.

SVCA staff will be closely monitoring watershed conditions. This message will remain in effect until Wednesday, March 11, at 9:30 a.m., unless updated otherwise. To report flooding in your area, visit the SVCA website: www.saugeenconservation.ca/reportflood.