Anyone planning on spending time near area waterways this weekend is being advised to be very careful.
A deluge of rain that hit the London area on Thursday is causing water levels in rivers, streams, and ponds to rise. The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority says banks along waterways are slippery and the water is cold and fast-moving.
"Saturday is the Thames River Clean Up, which takes place across the Thames River watershed," said Eleanor Heagy, UTRCA communications specialist. "There are also many other Earth Day events this weekend, and we want everyone to be aware that streams and rivers may be running high, and to stay out of the water."
While most of the area that makes up the Upper Thames River watershed saw 30 mm of rain between Thursday and Friday morning, some area saw upwards of 50 mm. The conservation authority expects water levels to be up to 1 m above normal for this time of year.
Flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe, Wildwood and Pittock conservation areas are at seasonal levels, and are being operated to reduce downstream flows.