SVCA downgrades flood watch to water safety statement

The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) has downgraded its early flood watch to a water safety statement.

This past week, the Saugeen Watershed received approximately 35-53 millimetres (mm) of rain, causing water levels in local watercourses to increase significantly. Small watercourses peaked late yesterday (April 3) into early this morning (April 4) and are now beginning to decline.

The Main Saugeen River has crested upstream of Walkerton, with downstream locations (such as the Municipalities of Brockton and Arran-Elderslie, as well as the Town of Saugeen Shores) still to peak late today (April 4) or early Saturday (April 5). These locations downstream of Walkerton are expected to remain below levels of concern.

Rain forecast for Saturday may extend high water levels into next week but is not anticipated to cause significant flooding. Small watercourses may approach or exceed their banks, depending on the amount and intensity of rainfall, and minor flooding may occur in low-lying areas.

High water levels, fast-flowing water, and slippery stream banks will continue to create hazardous conditions near all waterways. The public is reminded to stay away from all watercourses and structures, such as pedestrian bridges, culverts, and dams.

Municipal and county staff are advised to continue monitoring infrastructure for debris blockages until water levels have significantly receded.

SVCA staff will continue to monitor watershed conditions and will provide an update if conditions change. This message will remain in effect until Tuesday, April 8, at Noon, unless updated otherwise.

To report flooding, visit www.saugeenconservation.ca/reportflood.