An abundance of rain and mild temperatures are expected to cause some minor flooding in two London parks.
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) says between 20-50 mm of rain has fallen over the watershed over the past 48 hours, with another 5-10 mm forecast for Thursday. That, coupled with above freezing temperatures which melted much of the snow in the southern portion of the watershed, has water levels in streams, rivers, and ditches on the rise.
"We do not expect serious flooding but low lying areas will be flooded in many areas throughout the watershed, including Harris Park and potentially Gibbons Park, in London," said Mark Helsten, UTRCA senior water resources engineer. "Water levels will begin to peak later today in upstream locations, such as Mitchell, Stratford and Innerkip. The crest will move downstream throughout today and the Thames River will peak in Byron early on Friday."
The UTRCA is reminding the public to use extreme caution near all rivers, streams, ditches, and ponds, and keep children and pets away from their banks. It says ice on the water has become too unstable and thin to stand on and streambanks are slippery.
Environment Canada is forecasting temperatures to fall to back below freezing Thursday afternoon and remain there until early next week.
Flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood, and Pittock Conservation areas are at seasonal levels, and will be operated to reduce downstream flooding effects, according to UTRCA officials.