The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority have extended a flood watch for Lake Huron and the Sydenham River.
“Spring temperatures continue to deteriorate snow and ice across the region, elevating water levels on both branches of the Sydenham River into natural floodplain areas, farmland and parks,” SCRCA officials said on Thursday, March 4, 2021.
“A snow survey conducted earlier this week (March 1st, 2021) indicated remaining snowpack of up to 15 cm, with a snow-water equivalent of 32 mm. Temperature and precipitation forecasts for the coming days indicate the continued slow melt of snow. Water levels are anticipated to remain high with minor flooding, and minor ice jamming is possible in areas where ice continues to disintegrate and move through the system.”
SCRCA officials say the following roads may be impacted by high water levels:
– Stanley Line between Kimball Road and Waubuno Road
– Pretty Road north of McCallum Line
– Waterworks Road north of Courtright Line
“A gale warning is in effect today through Friday for Southern Lake Huron,” SCRCA officials say.
” Winds are expected to be north/northwesterly today through the weekend, with gusts between 40-50 km/h today becoming 50-60 km/h late Friday into early Saturday, subsiding Saturday afternoon. Waves are anticipated to be 1-2 m today and 3-4 m Friday morning. Residents along the Southern Lake Huron shoreline may experience increased wave action and possible erosion as a result.”
Residents are reminded to avoid shorelines, watercourses and flooded areas due to dangerous conditions, slippery banks and cold, swift moving water.
Children and pets should be kept away from the water, SCRCA officials added.
The Conservation Authority continues to monitor watershed conditions and will issue advisories to municipalities and media should flood issues arise.
Municipal emergency response staff and road superintendents should monitor local conditions closely, SCRCA officials say.
This flood watch will remain in effect until Monday, March 8, 2021, unless otherwise updated.
