SVCA issues flood outlook statement for Saugeen watershed

The Saugeen Valley Conservation Area (SVCA) advises that water levels are expected to rise, creating unsafe conditions in and around local watercourses throughout the weekend.

The remnants of Hurricane Beryl, now a large low-pressure system, was forecast to track through the SVCA watershed Wednesday and into Thursday. Rainfall totals of 40-60 millimetres (mm) across much of the watershed are expected, with locally higher amounts possible.

The watershed has received between five and 25 mm of rain since late Tuesday and water levels have begun to increase in response. Water levels are expected to remain elevated through the weekend. Before this event, stream flows were at, or slightly below, normal for this time of year.

While significant flooding is not expected, smaller watercourses could reach or exceed bank-full conditions, with minor flooding in low-lying areas. Depending on the intensity and duration of rainfall, localized flooding may also occur as small drainage systems become overwhelmed.

Elevated water levels, fast-flowing water, and slippery conditions along watercourse banks are extremely dangerous. The public is reminded to stay away from all watercourses and structures, such as bridges, culverts, and dams. Recreational river-users should take extra precautions, as higher water levels and faster flows are expected to persist throughout the weekend.

SVCA staff will be closely monitoring the situation and will provide an update if conditions change. This message will remain in effect until Sunday, July 14.

To report flooding in your area, visit our website: saugeenconservation.ca/reportflood.