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 rain, potential thunderstorms, and snowmelt forecasted for Friday (February 20).
Significant watercourse flooding has the potential to occur. Also, significant water safety concerns, as well as localized watercourse flooding of low-lying areas that typically flood during higher water levels, are expected.
There is considerable uncertainty as to the amount of runoff that will occur, given the combination of rain, potential thunderstorms, snowmelt and frozen wet soil conditions. 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.
Today (February 19), the Hamilton area is expected to receive 1 to 4 mm of rain, with an additional 5 mm of snowmelt runoff. Then on Thursday (February 20), 10 to 16 mm of rain is expected, with an additional 5 to 10 mm possible if thunderstorms occur, and an additional 7 mm of snowmelt runoff.
Current water levels and flows are slightly elevated above 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, February 23, 2026 at 4:30 PM, by which time it will either be updated or cancelled. HCA will issue updates prior to February 23 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
Mobile: 905-515-3087
Fax: 905-648-4622
Email: jbastien@conservationhamilton.ca
