The state of emergency continues in Thamesville. Flooding is also being experienced in Chatham near the Thames.
According to the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority, water levels on the Thames River in upstream areas have dropped, and peak levels were expected overnight or this morning.
In Chatham, the LTVCA says water levels have exceeded those observed in 2009, and forecasts suggest the levels may match the ones seen during the 1968 flood. Peak water levels in Chatham are expected this evening.
Officials say high water levels are expected throughout the weekend and into early next week in Chatham-Kent and Lakeshore.
At a press conference yesterday, fire chief Bob Crawford says everyone needs to make safety a priority during this time.
“Water is not safe to drive in. It’s not safe to walk in. You can’t determine what’s under the water. It may look safe, you may think there is no risk, but there is risk. We’re reminding people to take caution. Please don’t drive through the water. Please watch your children, watch your pets. It is dangerous, the water is moving fast, and while it may seem to look shallow and you think you may be able to make your way through it, I can assure you – this is not going to end well for anyone who enters the water,” says Crawford.
The Conservation Authority says residents with properties that back onto watercourses and the river should secure their properties and remove any items that could be damaged by flooding.
Visit the LTVCA’s website for updated flood notices.
