Dangerous Weather Alert in Effect for Halton

While we all know it’s wet and foggy outside, we might not all realize how hazardous some parts of Oakville, Burlington, Milton and surrounding areas might be.

While we all know it’s wet and foggy outside, we might not all realize how hazardous some parts of Oakville, Burlington, Milton and surrounding areas might be.

A flood outlook is currently in effect.

The watershed conditions statement was released by Conservation Halton on Tuesday morning and will remain in effect through Friday.

Environment Canada is forecasting above seasonal temperatures and rainfall for the beginning of next week with a possible 20-40 mm by early Wednesday morning.

“Widespread flooding is not anticipated. Our reservoirs are still in range of our seasonal holding levels and have storage capacity available,” the statement reads.

“However, fast flowing water and flooding of low lying areas and natural floodplains may be expected. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should be on alert.

Our watershed has received approximately 20 mm of rain over the last 24 hours, and an additional 10 to 15 mm of rain is anticipated to fall throughout Tuesday with another 5 mm expected early Wednesday morning.

The rainfall combined with warmer temperatures and melting snow “has resulted in increased flows and water levels in a majority of our creeks which are now at, or near bankfull capacity,” the statement reads.

“Flow and water level increases are expected to continue throughout today and into Wednesday, particularly in our larger watercourse systems (Grindstone, Sixteen Mile and Bronte Creeks). In addition, melting ice and snow may contribute to ice jamming and blockages at bridges and culverts which may lead to localized flooding.”

Conservation Halton is asking all residents and children to keep a safe distance from all watercourses and structures such as bridges, culverts and dams.

Elevated water levels, fast flowing water, and slippery conditions along stream banks “continue to make these locations extremely dangerous. Please alert children in your care of these imminent dangers.”