FLOOD WATCH – Inland Lake and River Flooding – July 27, 2026

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 and potential thunderstorms forecasted for the rest of today and tomorrow (July 27 and 28). 

Significant watercourse flooding has potential to occur.

In addition, significant water safety concerns, as well as localized watercourse flooding of low-lying areas that typically flood during higher water levels, are expected to occur.

There is considerable uncertainty as to resulting watercourse conditions, given the relatively large range of combined rain and thunderstorm amounts that are forecasted. 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, and slippery banks may pose significant hazards.  Adults are advised to keep children and pets away from water bodies currently.

In Spencer Creek, current water levels and flows are elevated but below to just below thresholds for significant water safety concerns. In other local watercourses, current water levels and flows are slightly elevated above baseflow conditions.  Currently, there is no significant watercourse flooding nor any significant water safety concerns in any watercourses.

Later today (July 27), the Hamilton area is expected to receive between 15 and 46 mm of total rain (this includes 15 to 21 mm of rain, with an additional 10 to 25 mm possible if thunderstorms occur).  Then on Tuesday (July 28), the Hamilton area is expected to receive between 1 and 33 mm of total rain (this includes 1 to 8 mm of rain, with an additional 5 to 25 mm possible if thunderstorms occur).

This message is in effect until Friday, July 31, 2026 at 4:30 PM, by which time it will either be updated or cancelled. HCA will issue updates prior to July 31 as needed.

There are no other active messages currently.

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