Local photographer Bonnie Sitter captured this image during a recent cross-country ski outing. See more of her photography at the South Huron Welcome Centre/Gallery in Exeter.
HURON COUNTY – A flood safety advisory in the Ausable Bayfield watershed was issued late this morning, as warm temperatures melt snowpacks over the weekend and leave more snow for a fast melt.
Northern parts of the watershed had approximately 70 mm of water equivalent in the snowpack as of last Friday, compared to the normal of about 50 mm for this time of year, the Ausable Conservation Authority reports.
The Maitland Valley Conservation Authority has also issued a bulletin that general watershed conditions are being assessed for high runoff potential that could lead to flooding. It is reminding the public of general river safety issues.
A low-pressure system approaching the Central Great Lakes is expected to spread rain into Southern Ontario. The most significant rainfall amounts are expected over Southwestern Ontario and in areas near Lake Huron and Georgian Bay where general amounts of 15 to 25 mm are forecast. The heaviest rain is expected to fall this afternoon and early evening.
With water levels in streams already slightly higher than normal because of snow melt, the forecast rain is expected to cause a fast rise in levels later today and overnight. Cooler temperatures and an end to the rain on Tuesday will result in most of the smaller streams peaking by noon on Tuesday, and larger rivers peaking late Tuesday or early Wednesday. This could create minor flooding in low-lying areas and close some secondary roads with traditional flooding problems.
Water levels in larger rivers are expected to remain higher than normal through most of the week.
Since most rivers are flowing free of ice, no ice jam problems are expected.
Residents are reminded that due to warmer temperatures and accompanying rainfall, any ice remaining on local streams and rivers, including ponds and reservoirs, should be considered unsafe. In addition, please use caution near all watercourses as waters may be fast-moving and higher than normal. Slippery and unstable streambanks and extremely cold water temperatures will create additional hazards.
The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority will continue to monitor watershed conditions and will provide an update if required.
