The Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA) is advising that water levels and flows in all watercourses within the HCA watershed are expected to increase significantly, as a result of the forecasted rain and snowmelt for Thursday (December 18). Significant water safety concerns, as well as localized watercourse flooding of low-lying areas that typically flood during higher water levels, is expected.
In addition, there is potential for significant watercourse flooding has the potential to occur, given the current snowpack, as well as the frozen and wet soil conditions, within the watershed.
There is considerable uncertainty as to the amount of runoff that will occur. As such, HCA staff continue to monitor watercourse, watershed, and weather conditions closely.
A close watch on local conditions is recommended. Also, HCA wishes to remind residents to exercise caution near all water bodies and structures such as bridges, culverts and dams during this time. Above normal water levels, faster moving water, rapidly changing levels and flows, unsafe ice, and slippery banks may pose significant hazards. Adults are advised to keep children and pets away from water bodies at this time.
On Wednesday (December 17), the Hamilton area is expected to receive up to 5 mm of snowmelt runoff. Then on Thursday (December 18), up to 15 mm of rain may occur, with an additional up to 11 mm of snowmelt runoff.
Current water levels and flows are near baseflow conditions in all watercourses within the HCA watershed, and do not pose significant water safety concerns nor significant watercourse flooding concerns.
This message is in effect until Monday, December 22, 2025 at 4:30 PM, by which time it will either be updated or cancelled. HCA will issue updates prior to December 22 as needed.
There are no other active messages at this time.
For further information or questions regarding this message, please contact:
Jonathan Bastien, Manager, Water Resources Engineering
Phone: 905-525-2181 ext. 138
Cell: 905-515-3087
Fax: 905-648-4622
Jonathan.Bastien@conservationhamilton.ca
