The possibility of local flooding in Mississauga, Brampton and other areas near the Credit River beginning Wednesday has prompted a notice from conservation officials urging people to stay away from streams, rivers and other watercourses this week.

Credit Valley Conservation, the organization that protects natural areas and watercourses in Mississauga, Brampton, Caledon and several other communities, issued a flood outlook statement Tuesday morning advising that a “strong low-pressure system” expected to enter the Credit River watershed on Tuesday and overnight into Wednesday is forecast to bring 10-15 mm of rain and freezing rain and five to 10 cm of snow.

“Air temperatures are expected to remain above 0 C today, reaching 5 C in Mississauga. Warmer conditions, combined with the significant snowpack of 45 to 90-plus mm of snow-water equivalent across the watershed, will cause snow to melt,” CVC said in its statement, which was issued shortly after 10:30 a.m. and will remain in effect until Friday or until further notice.

“Forecasted rain and snowmelt could result in runoff, elevating water levels and flows in rivers and creeks and weakening river ice,” the statement continues. “While neither significant flooding nor river ice breakup of the Credit River and its tributaries is expected, there is a possibility of localized flooding in flood- prone and low-lying areas.

“Urban streams and ice-covered rivers may be dangerous, especially in the vicinity of culverts, bridges and dams. People are warned to stay away from all watercourses and to keep children and pets away.”

The conservation authority added it will closely monitor weather and water levels and will issue any additional statements as needed.

A flood outlook statement puts communities on early notice “of the potential for flooding based on weather forecast of heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, ice jams, shoreline flooding or erosion,” conservation authority officials said.

Such statements are sent by CVC to municipalities, police and other emergency services, school boards and the media, among others.

Those concerned about high water levels in their area can contact their municipality at 311. For emergencies, officials say, call 911.

(Cover photo: Credit Valley Conservation)


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