CATFISH CREEK CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
WATER SAFETY
WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
Water Safety, Watershed Condition Statement for Residents of the Catfish Creek Conservation Authorities Administrative Area
Issued on July 9, 2024 at 8:15 a.m.
Issued by: Peter Dragunas, Water Management Technician
Catfish Creek Conservation Authority
(519) 773-9037
This is a Water Safety, 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 Water Safety, Watershed Conditions Statement for riverine overbank flow prone, low-lying areas adjacent to watercourses within the Catfish Creek watershed and its tributaries. At present stream, flow and water levels are below the seasonal average within the Catfish Creek watershed.
Environment Canada: Special weather statement issued for Elgin County.
Potential for heavy rainfall due to the remnants of Hurricane Beryl are forecast for Wednesday and Thursday. Heavy downpours giving rainfall rates of 20 to 40 mm per hour at times. Localized rainfall totals possibly well in excess of 50 mm. Beginning late Tuesday night or Wednesday, and continuing into Thursday. Heavy rainfall associated with the remnants of Hurricane Beryl may affect portions of southern Ontario beginning Tuesday night or Wednesday, and may persist into Thursday.
Creek and tributary water levels are expected to increase during this forecast. Conditions exist for higher water levels resulting in unsafe bank conditions, and unpredictable dangers around waterways. 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 conditions.
CCCA will continue to monitor watershed conditions and will issue updates and recommendations as necessary.
At present this Water Safety, Watershed Conditions Statement will remain in effect until 8:00 a.m. Friday July 12. Residents are asked to closely watch local conditions and take appropriate responsible action. Updates will be made available when and if conditions warrant.