The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (Cloca) advises that Environment Canada is forecasting severe weather producing high rainfall amounts over the next several days due to thunderstorms and remnants of hurricane Laura.
Rainfall amounts of 15 – 25 mm were expected last night, however thunderstorms could result in heavier localized rain. Showers are forecast to continue throughout the week, with another 15 – 25 mm of rainfall expected on Friday, it said.
Thunderstorms produce high intensity rainfall over a short period of time, which can cause soils to become saturated very quickly, resulting in increased runoff. Consequently, higher than normal water levels and flows can be expected in streams, especially in the vicinity of culverts and bridges. Localized flooding is not expected, but heavy downpours could result in flooding of low lying and flood prone areas.
Cloca has advised residents to stay away from all watercourses, shorelines, and structures such as bridges, culverts and dams. Increased wave activity, elevated water levels, fast flowing water, and slippery conditions along stream banks and Lake Ontario shorelines continue to make these locations extremely dangerous. Please remind children of these dangers.
This Flood Outlook Statement will be in effect through Saturday, August 29, 2020 or until further notice. The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority will continue to monitor the conditions of the streams and will provide updates as required.