Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety Statement [Event Message 1]

A series of low pressure systems are forecast to cross over the Long Point Region watershed over the next 5 days. The first system has entered the watershed this morning, predicted to bring 20 to 25 mm of precipitation, and the second system is predicted to cross the LPRCA watershed on Friday. Cumulative 5-day total precipitation could range from 40 to 60 mm.

As a result of this forecast, the Long Point Region Conservation Authority is issuing a Watershed Conditions Statement –Water Safety Statement. Under the forecasted conditions, riverine water levels and flows will increase. No major flooding is expected to occur based on this forecast however; some watercourses may reach or exceed their banks creating localized flooding in floodplains, low-lying areas, and regions with poor drainage.
People are warned to stay away from ditches, water bodies, streams, rivers, and ponds as the combination of slippery banks and cold, fast-flowing water is dangerous. Landowners are also advised to make sure dams, culverts, and catch basins are free from debris and ice and functioning properly, if the work can be done safely.

Water levels are expected to remain high into the weekend. Therefore, this Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety Statement is in effect until noon, Monday, January 15, 2024. LPRCA staff will continue to monitor forecasted conditions and will update this message as necessary.

Contact Paul Gagnon, Lands & Waters Supervisor at lprca.floodmessage@lprca.on.ca or 519-842-4242 ext. 232 should further information be required.

Note:

Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety Statement: a message issued by the Conservation Authority to advise municipal flood coordinators and watershed residents that unsafe lake, river and channel conditions may develop or exist.