Last updated January 3 at 8 p.m.
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA), whose jurisdiction includes London and communities northeast of the city, says bodies of water in the area will be a safety hazard for the next several days.
"Forecasts call for 20-40 mm of rain in the Upper Thames River watershed over Tuesday and Wednesday, with higher totals predicted in the southern half of the watershed," UTRCA said in a statement Monday. "The ground conditions are saturated and water levels are already above normal."
The conservation authority said heavy rainfall on Friday and Saturday added 15 - 30 mm of rain to the Upper Thames River watershed. About one week prior, a massive snow storm blew through the area leaving inches of snow on the ground. Rising temperatures and rainfall have caused most of this snow to melt, and runoff is making its way to nearby streams and rivers.
All of this precipitation has caused water levels to rise significantly. According to UTRCA, water banks are also quite slippery, and watercourses are cold and fast-moving.
"With schools closed over the holiday period, caregivers are reminded to keep children and pets away from watercourses," the conservation authority wrote.
The UTRCA expects elevated water levels for the rest of the week.
The conservation authority says flooding is not a major concern, however, flood control reservoirs are especially dangerous at this time due to fluctuating water levels. These areas should be avoided by the public.
