SVCA warns public to stay well away from rivers and streams

The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) is warning the public to stay well away from rivers and streams.

The recent warm weather has been melting the snowpack, resulting in rising river and stream levels in the Saugeen watershed. Since Tuesday, water levels have been rising and could continue increasing into the weekend in the main watercourses but significant flooding is not expected.

The forecast for the next seven days is for double-digit daytime temperatures with above-average overnight temperatures. Snow cover in open areas has disappeared but snowmelt continues to enter the river systems from forested and sheltered
areas. There has been less than five millimetres (mm) of rain over the past two days and minimal rain is forecast for the next few days.

Flooding will occur in the traditional low-lying floodplain areas but extensive flooding is not anticipated. Should more rainfall occur than predicted, then that will add runoff to the system and an update to this flood message will be issued, if warranted.

River ice has virtually all melted away and ice-jam problems are not expected for most areas.

For safety reasons, the public is advised to stay well away from rivers and streams. River banks can be wet and slippery. In particular, with schools on March Break next week, parents are reminded to keep children away from local waterways.

While air temperatures may be well above normal, water temperatures are still just above freezing which can cause hypothermia and death in a few minutes.

The SVCA will continue to monitor watershed river flow and weather conditions. This message is in effect until 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 15, unless a further message is issued.