The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) issued a flood watch on Friday, February 28, 2025.
“A brief cold spell is forecast for this weekend, turning to mild temperatures on Monday and increasing to 13°C on Wednesday,” SCRCA officials said in a media release.
“Over the next five days, areas throughout the watershed could see 5 to 10 cm of snow, with an additional 10 to 25 mm of rain between Tuesday and Wednesday.”
SCRCA officials added: “A snow survey conducted today found the remaining snowpack to have snow-water equivalents (SWE) between 35 and 50 mm, and soil conditions predominately frozen. Heavy rainfall on snow and frozen ground can expedite the loss of the snowpack and lead to increased runoff.”
Water levels across the region are elevated, with some low-lying areas experiencing flooding into the surrounding natural floodplain, SCRCA officials say.
“Should the long-range forecast come to fruition and the watershed receives 25 mm of rain atop of 50 mm water-equivalent snowpack, the watershed will react with increased runoff and water levels will rise further,” SCRCA officials added.
“Individuals are reminded to avoid watercourses and flooded areas due to dangerous and unstable ice conditions, slippery banks, and cold, swift moving water. Children and pets should be kept away from the water. 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.”
The flood watch will remain in effect until 12 p.m. on March 7, 2025, unless otherwise updated.
