Riverine Flood Warning (Event message #3)

The Long Point Region Conservation Authority is upgrading the Flood Watch to add a Riverine Flood Warning for lower Big Otter Creek from Tillsonburg to Port Burwell.

A significant amount of precipitation has fallen in the Long Point Region watershed over the last 24 hours. The Long Point Region received between 25 and 30 mm of precipitation across the watershed. This precipitation combined with the melting snowpack has created significant runoff. Water levels in local watercourses are rising rapidly and will continue to rise over the next 24 hours.

ACTION: While the flows in Big Otter Creek at Tillsonburg have not yet crested, the current flows at Tillsonburg indicate that flooding may occur in areas along the lower Big Otter Creek in Bayham Township, specifically in the town of Vienna, due flood coordinators should keep a close watch on river conditions and warn property owners in the most flood-prone areas of Vienna of the potential for flooding.

People are warned to stay away from ditches, streams, rivers and ponds as the combination of slippery banks and cold, fast-flowing water is dangerous. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from these areas.

Landowners are also advised to make sure dams, culverts and catch basins are free from debris and properly functioning, if safe to do so.

Water levels are expected to remain high for the next few days. LPRCA staff will continue to monitor watershed conditions and will update this message as necessary.

Therefore, this Flood Warning is in effect until 12:00 pm, Monday, January 29, 2024.

Contact Paul Gagnon, 519-842-4242 ext. 232 should further information be required.

NOTE:

Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.