January 8, 2026 Water Safety Statement

Thursday, January 8th, 2026 to Wednesday, January 14th, 2026 

Saugeen Conservation advises that warm temperatures combined with rain over the next several days are expected to increase water levels and create the potential for ice breakup throughout the watershed. 

ALL SAUGEEN WATERSHED MUNICIPALITIES – Municipality of Arran-Elderslie, Municipality of Brockton, Township of Chatsworth, Municipality of Grey Highlands, Town of Hanover, Township of Howick, Municipality of Morris-Turnberry, Municipality of South Bruce, Township of Huron-Kinloss, Municipality of Kincardine, Town of Minto, Township of Wellington-North, Town of Saugeen Shores, Township of Southgate, Municipality of West Grey.  

Warm temperatures accompanied by rain are forecast to begin today (Thursday, January 8th) and continue into Saturday, January 10th. Temperatures are expected to remain above freezing overnight Thursday, January 8th and will reach a daytime high of 11°C on Friday, January 9th. Approximately 10-15 mm of rain is expected for late Thursday into Friday. Warm temperatures combined with rain will result in higher water levels and may cause ice on frozen water bodies and river systems to break up. Infiltration of the snowmelt and rainfall will be limited due to frozen and saturated ground conditions. 

Saugeen Conservation staff are aware of a large ice jam on the Main Saugeen River at Bruce Road 17, west of Burgoyne. The public and recreational users are advised to avoid the Main Saugeen River downstream of this area as there is potential for this ice jam to suddenly release as water levels increase and warm air temperatures weaken the ice. Ice jams may be present elsewhere in the watershed and the public should exercise extreme caution around all watercourses. High water levels, fast-flowing water, weakened ice, and slippery stream banks will further contribute to hazardous conditions near watercourses.  

While significant flooding is not expected, watercourses could reach or exceed bank-full conditions, with minor flooding in low-lying areas. Municipal staff are advised to monitor potential drainage problem areas where snow and ice may have covered catch basins. 

Saugeen Conservation staff will be closely monitoring watershed conditions and will provide an update if conditions change. This message will remain in effect until Wednesday, January 14th, 2026 at 9:00 am unless updated otherwise. 

To report flooding in your area, visit our website: www.saugeenconservation.ca/reportflood