Flooding along Huron Rd. (Photo: Adam Duffy)
Drivers across London were dodging puddles Wednesday, as heavy rain and melting snow pushed levels higher along the Thames River.
Some low-lying areas near the river were overtopped, while pooling water made travel difficult on multiple streets.
London International Airport recorded between 20 and 40 millimetres of rain, according to Environment Canada, a significant amount for this time of year that increases the risk of localized flooding.
“We’ve been seeing some localized flooding throughout the watershed, especially over the weekend when we got really high amounts of rain mixed with that snow that was melting and running off,” said Emily Chandler, communications and marketing specialist with the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA).
Chandler said water levels had declined slightly earlier in the week but are expected to rise again with the latest rainfall.
“We do think overall water levels will go up and that localized flooding will be present,” she said.
The unstable conditions are part of a broader seasonal shift, according to Environment Canada meteorologist Geoff Coulson.
“This battle between springtime trying to assert itself with warmer air masses and colder Arctic air masses still playing a part in our weather is something we’ll be dealing with over the next week to 10 days,” Coulson said.
Flood alert signs were place on a bridge leading to Western University due to the rise in water levels. (Photo: Adam Duffy)
A mix of rain and snow is possible as temperatures fluctuate.
UTRCA operates several dams to control water levels across the watershed, including Fanshawe Dam in London.
The reservoir at Fanshawe has reduced downstream flow by about 45 per cent, helping limit impacts in the city.
Dams at Piddock Conservation Area in Woodstock and Wildwood Conservation Area near St. Marys are also in operation as levels remain elevated.
Thunderstorms in the forecast could complicate conditions, as rainfall can develop quickly and vary by location.
“Thunderstorms are tricky to predict because they’re a very quick occurrence of rainfall and they’re very localized,” Chandler said.
Bridge located behind Western University, often frequented by students and hospital staff. (Photo: Adam Duffy)
Officials monitor stream gauges throughout the watershed, but rapid changes are still possible during intense rainfall.
Chandler said homeowners can also take steps to reduce runoff, including planting trees and adding more natural vegetation to help absorb excess water.
