January 5, 2025 - Flood Watch West Grey

Flood Watch Main Saugeen River and Tributaries in the Municipality of West Grey

Sunday, January 5^th, 2025 to Monday, January 20^th, 2025

Saugeen Conservation advises that the Flood Outlook statement previously issued for the Municipality of West Grey has been upgraded to a Flood Watch.

MUNICIPALITY OF WEST GREY –

Lake effect snow squalls over the past several days have resulted in large amounts of slush occurring in the Main Saugeen River. Typical of these conditions, a partial blockage of the channel between the Durham Upper Dam and Durham Middle Dam, have caused water levels to increase immediately below McGowan Falls. While snow squalls have eased, a continued drop in temperatures over the next several days is expected to create frazil ice which could lead to further blockage of the channel.

Frazil ice is a naturally occurring phenomenon that is common in watercourses in Ontario.  It can happen when open water meets cold air and may lead to localized high-water conditions in certain areas.  The Durham area is especially susceptible to this circumstance. This Flood Watch statement has been issued as there is an increased likelihood of flooding in specific areas of West Grey.

SVCA and Municipality of West Grey staff continue to work together to prioritize public safety, with SVCA actively communicating flood forecasting information to municipal staff. As part of these efforts, municipal staff are encouraged to remain prepared to respond should conditions require action.

The public is advised that the Durham Upper Dam walkway and trail between the Upper Dam and Middle Dam are closed for safety. The public is asked to avoid the area until further notice.

Saugeen Conservation, in its capacity as a Flood Forecasting and Warning agency, will continue to closely monitor the situation and will provide updates as needed. This statement remains in effect until January 20, 2025 at 4:30pm unless otherwise updated.

To report flooding: www.saugeenconservation.ca/reportflood

For more information:
Jody Duncan, Flood Forecasting and Warning Coordinator
Email: floodcoordinator@svca.on.ca | Cell: (519) 369-8247

Media inquiries:
Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority
Email: media@svca.on.ca | Cell: 519-369-4295

Website: www.saugeenconservation.ca

Click here to download the PDF.