Rain, mild temperatures trigger Water Safety statement

Due to extensive rainfall and mild temperatures anticipated throughout today, Conservation Halton has issued a Watershed Conditions-Water Safety statement.

According to Environment Canada and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry’s (MNRF) Surface Water Monitoring Centre (SWMC), a possible 15-25 mm of rain was forecast on Friday, March 17, beginning near midnight and tapering off during the day. With mild daytime high temperatures up to 7°C persisting until Friday, the considerable snowpack that exists across the region is at risk of partially melting. This snowmelt runoff, combined with the additional rain, may result in elevated water levels in rivers and streams within our jurisdiction.

Widespread flooding is not anticipated, says Conservation Halton, however, fast-flowing water and flooding of low-lying areas, natural floodplains and areas with poor drainage may be expected.

Conservation Halton is asking all residents and children to stay off any remaining ice-covered bodies of water and keep a safe distance from all watercourses and structures such as bridges, culverts, and dams. Elevated water levels, fast flowing water, and cold water temperatures, combined with slippery conditions along stream banks, continue to make these locations extremely dangerous. Please alert children in your care of these imminent dangers.

Conservation Halton will continue to monitor stream and weather conditions and will issue an update to this Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety message as conditions warrant.

This Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety will be in effect through Saturday March 18, 2023.