With the forecasted warmer weather and potential for rain this weekend, the existing snowpack will be significantly reduced. Snow cover (water content) is highly variable throughout our watersheds with some areas having up to 12.5 cm (5”) of water content. The majority of the watersheds are between 5 cm (2”) and 7.5 cm (3”).    

As the snow begins to melt, soils become saturated under the snow and additional snow melt will quickly run off into ditches, streams and rivers. Flows will increase and may reach average/normal spring runoff levels later this week. Although unusual flooding is not expected at this time, seasonal flooding of low-lying areas will likely occur.    

There is a concern regarding the potential for ice jams. We are still noting some ice cover throughout our watersheds. The increase in water levels will likely mobilize the ice sheets and they may cause jamming and localized flooding.  

Grey Sauble Conservation Authority would like to remind everyone that during spring runoff events, potential conditions exist that could pose a risk to personal safety. High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for residents and pets. Stay back from riverbanks and away from fast moving water.   

Grey Sauble staff will continue to monitor the weather and the flows and provide additional updates as needed.  Watershed residents can access snow, stream flow and rain gauge data through our Watershed Conditions page on our website: https://www.greysauble.on.ca/water-management/current-watershed-conditions/.  

This Statement expires March 20th, 2022 at 12pm unless replaced by further updates. 

Contact:  John Bittorf, Water Resource Coordinator, [email protected], 519-376-3076 ext 228

source:media release