Thames river flooding recedes, more rain expected

The lower Thames River still has high water levels after the rainfall of last week. That weather system produced between 65 and 85 mm of rain. Current forecasts are predicting up to 5 mm overnight, 5 to 10 mm more precipitation is expected tomorrow. An additional 25 to 35 mm of rain is expected on Wednesday through to Friday.

The Thames River flats between Delaware and Thamesville are draining and the flats around Dutton should no longer be flooded by tomorrow. River levels around Thamesville have started to drop.

In Chatham, the diversion channel is operating and the 6th St. dam on McGregor Creek has been closed. The pumps have operated for more than two days. These structures were designed to protect the south end of the city along McGregor and Indian Creeks. The Thames River in Chatham is on a very slow decline, having peaked at an elevation of 3.75 m above normal. Noticeable drops in water levels are not expected until late tomorrow. Water levels can be expected to stay high for another couple of days. The extra rainfall predicted could boost water levels again.

People should avoid ditches, streams, creeks and the river as a combination of slippery banks, and fast flowing water is dangerous. People are encouraged to keep their children and animals away from waterways.