Potential ice jams, flooding during January thaw

An ice jam is seen near Goderich, Ont. in January 2023. (Scott Miller/CTV News London)

A mid week warm up has prompted some warnings from at least one local conservation authority.

The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority says it is keeping its eyes on an ice jam in the Saugeen River near Burgoyne that could let go and rapidly rise the river level.

Thursday’s warm up, coupled with Friday’s 10 C weather and 10 to 15 millimeters of rain over the next two days could lead to the ice jam letting go unexpectedly.

While they are not expecting large scale flooding as a result, if the ice jam lets go, they are warning residents upstream to be mindful near waterways this week and next.

High water levels, due to the rain and rapidly melting snow, fast flowing water, weakened ice, and slippery stream banks will further contribute to the potentially hazardous conditions near watercourses, Saugeen conservation officials say.

The water safety statement will remain in effect until Jan. 14. To report flood conditions, you can visit the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority’s website.