The water level in the Thames River has dropped dramatically although standing water remains in in some areas, municipal officials say.
Residents who have left their homes and are considering returning need to ensure their street is open and utilities are operational. For information on restoring service call 519-360-1998 or the utilities directly.
As water levels continue to drop, Chatham-Kent officials are reminding residents to take precautions if water entered their home or business.
Provincial officials will be assessing the flooded areas this week in order to determine what programs will be available to those affected by flooding. Once those programs are in place, the public will be notified.
The municipality is preparing a plan for removal of flood-damaged debris from affected areas. That information will be made public as soon as the plan is finalized.
Residents with questions about flooding can call 519-360-1998 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Those calling after business hours should leave their information in order to receive a return call. As always, in case of emergency, call 9-1-1.
There are a number of issues facing those returning to their properties.
For general information about insurance, visit the Insurance Bureau of Canada site: www.ibc.ca
Information about cleaning up after a flood can be found, here.
Information about the dangers of mould growth and how to prevent it visit, here.
For information on food safety visit, here.
Normal conditions for the St. Clair Region Conservation Area
Conditions are back to normal for the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority.
A flood warning issued by the SCRCA expired on Monday, February 26.
SCRCA official say they gradually opened the gates at the W. Darcy McKeough Dam throughout Sunday.
LTVCA issued Watershed Conditions – Safety Bulletin
The Lower Tahmes Valley COnservation Authority issued a safety bulletin on Tuesday, as warm temperatures, melting snow and heavy rainfall last week led to large amounts of flooding in the Thames River watershed.
A flood warning is no longer in effect.
“All the snow in the Thames watershed has now melted and there is no longer any ice cover on the Thames River.,” LTVCA officials stated.
“Weather forecasts are calling for temperatures to remain above freezing until Friday when overnight lows below freezing will occur. Long range forecasts are predicting 10-35 mm of rain on Thursday.”
Water levels on the Thames River are dropping throughout the watershed, from the upper reaches down to the mouth at Lighthouse Cove.
“Water levels are back down into the river flats all along the river. The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority ceased operations of the 6th St. Backwater Dam and Pumping Station yesterday evening and the Indian-McGregor Creek Diversion Channel this morning,” LTVCA officials say.
“Should the large amounts of rainfall predicted for Thursday occur, the Diversion Channel may again need to operate.”
The LTVCA has received complaints of residents pushing flood -related debris back into the river.
“We would ask that residents properly dispose of such material as it could present a hazard,” LTVCA officials say.
“The river will see elevated water levels for a few days. People should take extra caution and avoid the river, ditches, and streams. The combination of slippery banks, floating debris, and fast moving cold water can be dangerous. Standing water can also present its own unseen hazards. Children, pets and livestock should be kept away from the water.”
Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update this advisory if necessary.
This message will be in effect until February 28th, 2018.
