​SVCA issues flood watch statement due to forecast rainfall this week

The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) has issued a flood watch statement due to forecast rainfall this week in the Saugeen Watershed.

A special weather statement, issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada, advises that 20-40 millimetres (mm) of rain is forecast for Wednesday (April 2). Higher amounts are possible in areas that receive thunderstorms.

Precipitation is expected to begin as freezing rain Wednesday morning, before transitioning to rain as temperatures rise above the freezing mark in the afternoon. Water levels and flows in local watercourses are currently elevated due to significant rainfall this past weekend. The watershed received an average of 45 mm of rain, resulting in saturated ground conditions and minor flooding.

Given the saturated soil, forecast rainfall will end up as run-off, contributing to rapidly increasing water levels. Continued localized flooding of small watercourses and low-lying areas that typically flood during higher water levels, is expected.

The public is advised to avoid all watercourses at this time, including structures such as pedestrian bridges, culverts, and dams. High water levels, fast flowing water, and slippery conditions along watercourse banks are extremely dangerous.

Individual landowners in flood-prone areas should remain alert and prepare for possible flooding by taking precautionary measures, such as clearing drains.

Municipal and county staff should monitor problem areas and be prepared to close low-lying roads.

SVCA staff will be closely monitoring watershed conditions and will provide an update if conditions change. This message will remain in effect until Friday, April 4, at Noon unless updated otherwise.

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