A winter warm-up set to melt the snow from last week's major storm has prompted a safety warning from a conservation authority southeast of St. Thomas.
The Catfish Creek Conservation Authority has issued an advisory warning that high water flow and melting snow caused by above freezing temperatures could potentially make waterways in the local watershed unsafe.
"Water levels are expected to rise and may remain elevated during the latter part of this week. Due to these increased adverse weather conditions, there is a potential for higher water and ice flows resulting in unsafe channel bank conditions and other unpredictable dangers around waterways," Peter Dragunas, a water management technician for the conservation authority, said in a statement.
No flooding is expected.
Environment Canada is forecasting temperatures to rise above zero Wednesday and climb to daytime highs of 7 C and 9 C Thursday and Friday with a significant chance of rain each day. The above seasonal and wet conditions will last into next week.
"Winter sport recreation, children, pets and people intending to undertake any recreational activities around watercourses need to abstain from these areas during these conditions," said Dragunas.
He added that the public is encouraged to use extreme caution near all bodies of water and to keep children away from waterways during increased water flow. Landowners are advised to check dams, culverts, and catch basins to make sure they are free from debris and functioning as intended.
The safety warning will remain in effect "until further notice."
The conservation authority will continue to monitor watershed conditions and provide updates and recommendations as necessary.
