Stock photo. (Photo courtesy of SCRCA)Stock photo. (Photo courtesy of SCRCA)
Chatham

Melting snow, high water levels on Sydenham River prompt flood watch

Warm temperatures over the weekend have caused a lot of snow to melt in the region which may lead to flooding in several areas, however, freezing temperatures overnight should slow the melting process.

The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) issued a flood watch on Monday for its entire jurisdiction, which spans through Sarnia-Lambton, parts of Chatham-Kent, and Strathroy.

Conservation officials said a lot of snow and ice melted over the weekend which has led to elevating water levels on the Sydenham River to push onto natural floodplain areas, farmland, and parks.

"Water levels are anticipated to remain high in the coming days with levels elevating further in some areas with continued snow loss," said a release from the SCRCA.

The conservation authority said some roads may be affected by flooding.

Although ice continues to move through the lakes and rivers, the SCRCA said minor ice jams are possible.

"Sections of the rivers are open however ice remains in the lower reaches of both, with brash ice currently at the outlet of the St. Clair River into Lake St. Clair," read the release. "Canadian and U.S. Coast Guard vessels have been conducting ice flushing operations on the river."

The conservation authority also said freezing spray and gale warnings are in effect for Southern Lake Huron.

The flood watch will remain in effect until Wednesday.

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