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 June 5, 2024 at 1:00 p.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.  Conditions are favorable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and torrential rain.  Hazards may include: Wind gusts up to 100 km/h., heavy downpours, nickel size hail.

Scattered thunderstorms are expected to push into the region this afternoon and continue into the early evening as a cold front pushes through.

Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Water-related activities may be unsafe due to violent and sudden gusts of wind over bodies of water.

Be prepared for severe weather. Take cover immediately, if threatening weather approaches. Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors!
Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favorable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce one or more of the following: large hail, damaging winds, torrential rainfall.

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 June 7.  Residents are asked to closely watch local conditions and take appropriate responsible action.  Updates will be made available when and if conditions warrant.