Highlights:

• Warm temperatures over the weekend melted much of the snow in the upper watershed
• Water levels on the Thames River have risen but not to levels typical of a spring flood
• High water levels will be seen this week as the water works its way downstream

Message:

Warm temperatures over the weekend have caused much of the snow in the upper Thames watershed too melt. This melt has caused river levels to rise. Water levels in the city of London have now peaked and the peak flows will work their way downstream over the next few days. The peak water levels came in lower than is typically seen during a spring melt or freshet event. From Delaware down to Chatham the river would be expected to rise up but only to get into the most low-lying of the flood flats adjacent to the river. In the city of Chatham, water levels will likely only rise up enough to flood the sidewalk along the river in the downtown. Throughout the river, the ice cover has now melted and there is no longer any risk of ice jams.

People should take extra caution and avoid the river, ditches, and streams. The combination of slippery banks and fast-moving cold water can be dangerous. Children and animals should be kept away from the water.

Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update this advisory as necessary.

This message will be in effect until March 11th, 2022.

Message Contact: Jason Wintermute ([email protected])