Saugeen Valley Conservation has issued a flood watch with the threat of more heavy rain, on top of the 75 mm of rainfall the region received on Tuesday.
The conservation authority reports water levels have increased substantially in local rivers and streams. While small watercourses started to decline on Wednesday, larger rivers remain high. Forecasts predict an additional 30 to 40 mm of rain is possible, starting Thursday, and into Saturday.
"With the ground already saturated, this rainfall will lead to increased runoff and a rapid rise in local rivers and streams," noted the Conservation Authority. "While widespread flooding is not anticipated at this time, localized flooding in low-lying areas and near watercourses is possible over the coming days."
There could also be pooling of water in agricultural fields, low-lying areas, and areas with poor drainage. There is also the possibility of more extensive flooding if the watershed receives more rain than what is currently forecast.
Municipal staff are advised to monitor drainage systems and low-lying infrastructure. Saugeen Conservation staff will be closely monitoring watershed conditions and will provide an update if conditions change.
People need to be cautious near watercourses as stream banks may be slippery and unstable, and the water is very cold and fast-moving.
The flood watch is in effect for the Municipality of Arran-Elderslie, the Municipality of Brockton, the Township of Chatsworth, the Municipality of Grey Highlands, the Town of Hanover, the Township of Howick, the Municipality of Morris-Turnberry, the Municipality of South Bruce, the Township of Huron-Kinloss, the Municipality of Kincardine, the Town of Minto, the Township of Wellington-North, the Town of Saugeen Shores, the Township of Southgate, and the Municipality of West Grey.
The flood watch will be in place until Tuesday, April 7th at noon, unless updated otherwise.
