The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) is advising London-area residents to keep kids and pets away from rivers, streams, and ditches.
A combination of recent rainfall and above freezing temperatures is causing water levels in local streams and rivers to rise. While no significant flooding is expected, conservation officials have said low lying, flood-prone areas will be noticeably soggy. As a result, the public is being asked to exercise extreme caution around all waterways.
"Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard," the UTRCA said in a statement. "Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from all waterways."
The UTRCA said flood control reservoirs at Fanshawe Conservation Area in London, Pittock Conservation Area in Woodstock, and Wildwood Conservation Area near St. Marys are at seasonal levels and are being operated to reduce any downstream flooding.
