Highlights:

• The peak of this recent flood on the Thames River has now passed out into Lake St. Clair.
• Water levels are dropping throughout the lower Thames watershed.
• Floodwaters are starting to drain out of the river flats in the LTVCA’s area of Middlesex and Elgin Counties.
• High water levels on the Thames River should be expected through the weekend.

Message:

Thunderstorms passed through the region last Friday into Saturday dropping a significant amount of rain on the Thames River watershed and leading to high water levels. Additional rain Monday overnight into Tuesday and on Wednesday kept water levels high. Peak flows on the Thames River have now left the watershed and passed out into Lake St. Clair. Water levels are now dropping throughout the lower Thames River watershed. Floodwaters are starting the drain out of the river flats in the LTVCA’s area of Middlesex and Elgin Counties. Local watercourses tributary to the Thames River should also see water levels drop as the river drops. High water levels on the Thames River should be expected through the weekend.

Weather forecasts are not calling for any additional rain over the next week, warm temperatures are expected and the skies are expected to be sunny or partly sunny. This should help dry out the currently saturated watershed.

In Chatham, the 6th St. Dam has stopped pumping operations and has reopened. River levels are still too high to allow for the opening of the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel Dam.

People should continue to take extra caution and avoid the river, ditches, and streams. The combination of slippery banks and fast-moving cold water can also be dangerous. Standing water can present its own unseen hazards. Children and animals should be kept away from the water.

As flood waters recede, we ask that residents attempt to ensure that catch basins and other drainage works are free of debris and can function properly. Debris and other waste left behind from the flooding should be properly disposed of rather than thrown back in the river.

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

This message will be in effect until April 10th, 2023.

Message Contact: LTVCA Administration Office (519-354-7310) or [email protected]