The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority is keeping a close eye on the rising Sydenham River. Over the past two days up to 45 mm of rain has fallen, saturating the ground. The double digit temperatures over the weekend also helped melt the snow pack, particularly in the traditional snow belt area, contributing to the rising river levels.

Several roads have already been closed including Stanley Line from Kimball to Waubuno, Pretty Road from Stanley to McCallum and Plowing Match Road from Petrolia Line to Rokeby.

Here’s the conservation authority’s full statement.

Message: Rising water levels, flooded roads

• 15 to 45 mm accumulated rainfall over the past 48 hours
• Saturated conditions, water levels still rising
• Confirmed road closures due to flooding

Weather Situation:

Over the past 48 hours the watershed has received 15 to 45 mm of rainfall, with the majority of it falling yesterday. The forecast is calling for above-freezing daytime temperatures today through Wednesday, with overnight temperatures hovering close to freezing. Additional rainfall amounts of trace to 5 mm is forecast for Tuesday for areas in the southern portion of the watershed (Wallaceburg), with the northern areas (Sarnia, Strathroy) forecast to receive trace amounts of rain and snow Tuesday and Wednesday.

Risks:

Water levels are continuing to rise across the region and have exceeded bankfull conditions, spilling into surrounding floodplains and onto roads. Road closures due to flooding have been confirmed for:

• Stanley Line from Kimball Rd. to Waubuno Rd.
• Pretty Rd. from Stanley Line to McCallum Line
• Plowing Match Rd. from Petrolia Line to Rokeby Line

Further flooding is anticipated as the influx of water continues to move through the watershed to the southern reaches of the Sydenham River.

Individuals are reminded to avoid watercourses and flooded areas due to dangerous conditions, slippery banks and cold, swift moving water. Children and pets should be kept away from the water.

The Conservation Authority continues to monitor watershed conditions and will issue advisories to municipalities and media should flood issues arise. Municipal emergency response staff and road superintendents should monitor local conditions closely.

This message will remain in effect until 12 p.m. Thursday, January 2^nd, 2025, unless otherwise updated.