CATFISH CREEK CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
FLOOD OUTLOOK
WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT

For Immediate Release
Flood Outlook, Watershed Condition Statement for Residents of the Catfish Creek Conservation Authorities Administrative Area
Issued on February 16, 2026 at 9:30 a.m.
Issued by: Peter Dragunas, Water Management Technician
Catfish Creek Conservation Authority

(519) 773-9037

This is a Flood Outlook, Watershed Conditions Statement indicating that higher than normal creek flows, possible unsafe bank conditions, or other factors could be dangerous for any recreation around waterways, including children and pets. Flooding is not expected at this time.

Effective immediately, the Catfish Creek Conservation Authority (CCCA) is issuing a Flood Outlook, Watershed Conditions Statement for flood prone, low-lying areas adjacent to watercourses within the Catfish Creek watershed and its tributaries. At present stream flow and water levels, remain below the seasonal averages within the Catfish Creek watershed.

The three-day weather forecast is for upwards of 33mm of precipitation, which may be heavy at times with above freezing daytime temperatures. The ground within the watershed is frozen and the snow pack water equivalency is higher than normal which could add another 50mm of runoff. With the last, few days of above freezing temperatures resulted in snowmelt and reduced the water storage capacity of the snowpack, Due to the snowmelt the forecast precipitation may not have the ability to be temporarily absorbed by the existing snowpack.

Data shows there remains a probability that soil infiltration of the forecast rainfall may be limited and the subsequent associated runoff has the potential to quickly elevate water levels within the watershed with some localized ponding in poorly drained areas is expected.

Creek and tributary water levels are expected to increase during this forecast. Due to this weather forecast, conditions for potentially higher water levels will result in unsafe channel bank conditions, along with other unpredictable dangers around waterways within the CCCA administrative area. Children, pets and people intending to undertake any recreational activities around watercourses need to abstain from these areas during this time.

The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution near all bodies of water, and to keep children and pets away from waterways during times of increased water flow. Landowners are advised to check dams, culverts, and catch basins and make sure they are free from debris and functioning as intended during high water circumstances.

CCCA will continue to monitor watershed conditions and will issue updates and recommendations as necessary.

At present this Flood Outlook, Watershed Conditions Statement will remain in effect until 10.00 a,m. Tuesday February 17. Residents are asked to closely watch local conditions and take appropriate responsible action. Updates will be made available when and if conditions warrant.