Heavy rain sweeping across the region watershed is keeping conservation officials on alert, with water levels rising and more precipitation in the forecast this week.
The Grey Sauble Conservation Authority and Saugeen Conservation say between 10 and 70 millimetres of rain fell across the region on Sunday, driving increases in river flows. Many of the larger river systems had already begun to crest before another round of rainfall moved in early Monday.
Most waterways are expected to stay within the range of typical spring runoff, but the Sauble River is an exception. That system has taken on between 50 and 70 millimetres of rain over the past 24 hours and continues to rise, with the potential to climb above normal seasonal levels. Even so, officials note it is not expected to reach the higher levels seen earlier this year.
The unsettled weather pattern is far from over. Forecasters are calling for an additional 10 to 15 millimetres of rain each day over the next four days, with periods of heavier rainfall possible. That steady input is likely to keep rivers and streams elevated through the remainder of the week, although most are still not expected to surpass typical spring conditions.
With the ground already soaked from recent storms, the landscape has little capacity left to absorb more moisture. As a result, much of the incoming rain will flow directly into waterways, increasing runoff. Smaller creeks, ditches and urban drainage systems could fill rapidly, raising the risk of localized flooding, particularly in low-lying areas.
Conservation officials are also urging the public to be cautious around rivers and streams during this period of high water. Swift currents, unstable banks and lingering ice can create dangerous conditions for anyone venturing too close.
Staff with Saugeen Conservation and the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority will continue tracking weather patterns and water levels and will provide updates as conditions evolve. The current watershed conditions statement remains in place until Friday afternoon unless new information prompts an earlier update.
