Flood Watch & Water Safety (Event Message #1)

The Long Point Region Conservation Authority is issuing a Flood Watch for the Big Otter Watershed and a Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety for the rest of the watershed.

The first of a series of low-pressure systems has moved across southern Ontario bringing above freezing temperatures and approximately 17 mm of precipitation to the watershed.

The last snow survey showed approximately 22.4 mm of snow water equivalent which has begun to melt.  The melting snow pack and recent precipitation is generating runoff and increasing water levels in local watercourses. Localized flooding and ponding of water in low-lying and poorly drained areas are also occurring.

Above seasonal temperatures are expected to continue along with additional precipitation.  The majority of the snow pack is expected to melt over the weekend, further elevating watercourses.

Stream flows are expected to increase over the next few days, and 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 ensure that dams, culverts, and catch basins are free from debris and functioning properly, if the work can be done safely.

This Flood Watch & Water Safety Statement will remain in effect until 12:00 PM Monday, March 9, 2026. LPRCA staff will continue to monitor watershed and weather 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:

Flood Watch: A message issued by the Conservation Authority to advise flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities.  Municipal flood coordinators, emergency services and individual landowners in flood prone areas should prepare.