The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority advises that the Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook issued yesterday, has been upgraded to a Flood Watch for the entire watershed.
The watershed has received between 50 and 60 millimeters of rain and forecasts are calling for an additional 50 to 60 millimeters by tomorrow. Rain may fall persistently throughout the evening and into the night.
Many smaller creek systems have already overtopped their banks, and larger stream systems are nearing or at banks full, including areas in Mount Forest, Priceville, Durham, Hanover, and Walkerton. Flows in larger stream systems are likely to peak tomorrow or Friday.
Due to the prolonged rainfall and saturation of soils, widespread flooding is inevitable, especially in urban areas, traditional low-lying areas and in the vicinity of bridges, culverts, and dams. Municipal and County emergency response staff should continue to monitor local conditions closely and prepare to close low-lying roads.
Residents are encouraged to stay away from all watercourses and structures such as bridges, culverts, and dams. Elevated water levels, fast flowing water, and slippery conditions along stream banks make these locations extremely dangerous. Extra caution should also be taken along the Lake Huron shoreline due to strong winds and high wave action.
This Flood Watch Statement will be in effect through Friday Sept 24, 2021, or until further notice. The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority will continue to monitor stream conditions and will provide updates as required.
