Highlights:

• Ice is beginning to break up and beginning to move in areas upstream of Kent Bridge
• Sudden surges in water levels can occur as the ice moves downstream.
• River ice should be considered unsafe throughout the river.
• Water levels appear to have peaked and are dropping upstream of Currie/Thames Road

Message:

Warm weather conditions last week caused melting of the snowpack in both the Lower and Upper Thames River watersheds. Water levels have risen on the Thames River in response, and the ice on the river has weakened as a result. Water levels in London peaked last evening and appear to be currently peaking around Currie / Thames Rd.

Upstream of Kent Bridge Road, the ice is beginning to break up and is starting to move downstream. As the ice breaks up and moves, it can get hung up at bends in the river or other areas where the ice is still thick. This can lead to sudden surges in water levels that may cause localized flooding issues.

Ice on the river is still intact though the city of Chatham. Downstream of Chatham, there is a stretch of open river for several kilometers. After that, through Prairie Siding and down to the mouth, the ice is still intact. However, the ice should not be considered safe. The remaining ice in these areas may break up as water levels continue to rise or as ice from upstream pushes down into these areas.

Current flows on the Thames River have not caused ice jam flooding in the past. However, conditions should be monitored as the breakup continues.

The combination of slippery banks, unstable ice conditions, and fast-moving cold water can be dangerous. Standing water can also present its own unseen hazards. People should stay out of any flooded areas. Children, pets, and livestock should be kept away from the water. It is not safe to take shelter along riverbanks or in low lying areas that are prone to flooding.

Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update this advisory if necessary.
This message will be in effect until February 23rd, 2026.

Message Contact: Jason Wintermute ([email protected]) regarding this message.