Photo courtesy of the LTVCA.

With some milder temperatures on the horizon once again, local conservationists are keeping tabs on the Thames River.

Most of the area’s snow and ice cover melted last week before another deep freeze settled in, but the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority says the drainage has been slowed by new ice forming.

Water levels on the Thames are expected to peak around Dutton today and Thamesville and Chatham on Tuesday, and elevated levels can be expected for several days beyond that.

The Indian-McGregor Creek Diversion Channel is still operating to protect the south end of the City of Chatham from flooding.

Residents are urged to steer clear of the river as the Conservation Authority says combination of slippery banks, broken or unstable ice and fast moving cold water can be dangerous.