The Sydenham River in downtown Wallaceburg, May 16, 2014.
Water levels have been climbing over the past 48 hours and have resulted in over-bank flooding into floodplain areas with over 50mm of precipitation being received across the area over the past three days, says officials with the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority.
Watercourses are experiencing near bank full conditions as rain continues to drain through the watershed. Localized flooding has continued to expand into low lying areas overnight, mostly into agricultural, parkland and floodplain areas.
Water levels in all areas of the watershed are expected to remain high with swift flowing water throughout the weekend.
No additional significant precipitation is anticipated which will allow flows to continue to drain slowly over the next few days.
Rural drains and watercourses will remain full as a result of saturated field conditions and floodplain areas will continue to be impacted.
Roads impacted by high water levels include:
St. Clair Township:
– Waterworks Road near Stanley Road – Pretty Road near Stanley Road
Additional roads and watercourses may continue to be affected however conditions are expected to improve into the weekend.
Municipal emergency response staff and road superintendents should review emergency response plans and monitor local conditions closely.
Additional bulletins will be issued should conditions change.
Residents are reminded to avoid watercourses and flooded areas due to saturated and slippery banks as well as the danger of swift moving water.
The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority will monitor the flood condition of the watersheds in the region and will provide warnings to municipal officials and media in the event conditions develop which could result in the potential of more severe flooding.
This message will remain in effect until Monday May 19th 2014 unless otherwise updated.
