In the wake of steady rains sweeping across the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) watershed today (Wednesday, December 27) residents are urged to exercise caution due to the potential risk of minor flooding.
Rainfall totals in the range of 20-30 mm have been recorded across much of the watershed, with localized areas, particularly near Lucan and Parkhill experiencing higher accumulations exceeding 35 mm.
Saturated ground conditions have expedited runoff, prompting river flow forecasts to indicate rising watercourse levels into the night. While major flooding isn’t anticipated, some watercourses in the southern region are expected to surpass bank full. There exists a slight risk of minor flooding in these areas, though it is anticipated to be contained within low-lying undeveloped floodplain zones.
Residents are strongly reminded to exercise caution around creeks, rivers, and other watercourses. The combination of slippery and unstable streambanks, along with extremely cold water temperatures, poses additional hazards.
The cautionary message will remain in effect until 12:00 p.m. Saturday, December 30.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
