The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority issued a flood watch on Monday due to the potential for ice accumulation on local waterways that could obstruct water flow.
In a news release, the NVCA noted the weather forecast is calling for temperatures as low as -20°C overnight over the next five days.
Sustained westerly winds in the range of 25-30 km/hr are also expected, producing wind chill temperatures of -20 to -30°C.
"Many of the watercourses within the NVCA are currently experiencing elevated flows as a result of last week’s rainfall and still do not have an established ice cover," the release states.
Lack of ice cover, turbulent flows and exposure of the water surface to air temperatures below -18°C can trigger the formation of "frazil ice", the NVCA said.
"This type of ice can accumulate rapidly on water structures such as bridge abutments, piers, riverbanks, and channels, obstructing the flow of water and causing the water level to rise," according to the conservation authority.
"Where the frazil ice jam forms, elevated water levels and flooding upstream of the jam can occur.
The NVCA said municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should be on alert and are strongly encouraged to keep a close watch for frazil ice generation, and fluctuating water levels, and to take action to limit or prevent damages due to potential flooding.
Hazardous conditions may exist around all water bodies, as there is a high risk of life-threatening injury if a person falls into the extremely cold water. The public and especially children are advised to stay away from all water bodies.
The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority continues to monitor river and stream conditions and will issue additional messages as conditions warrant. This Flood Watch Statement will be in effect until, or updated before, 4 p.m. Friday.
For additional information, go to www.nvca.on.ca.
