Canada – Chatham-Kent Declares Emergency as Thames River Rises

by in Americas, News

Areas of Ontario, Canada, continue to be affected by flooding that began on 21 February after heavy rain and snowmelt increased river levels.

Last week the Grand River in southern Ontario had already burst its banks last week after torrential rains and mild temperatures. Evacuations were required in Orangeville and Brantford. Hundreds of volunteers have continued to search for a child who was swept away by floodwaters last week near the town of Grand Valley.

On 23 February, Chatham-Kent declared a state of emergency as levels of the Thames river increased.

Chatham-Kent

The Thames River in Chatham-Kent, Ontario, Canada, burst its banks during the weekend 24 to 25 February 2018, prompting evacuations and flood rescues.

The flooding was forecast. The Thames crested in London on Thursday morning and flood plains and low lying areas throughout Chatham-Kent were under water by Friday as the peak moved west.

Chatham-Kent Fire and Emergency Services Chief Bob Crawford said the slippery banks and fast flowing water posed a significant safety risk and urged people to stay a safe distance from the waterway.

“The current is very powerful and your odds of surviving if you fall in are slim,” he said. “It’s not worth the risk.”

City officials made preparations and Chatham-Kent Mayor Randy Hope declared a state of emergency on 23 February due to the imminent flood threat. He also requested an immediate voluntary evacuation of the community of Thamesville and officials opened an evacuation centre.

The Thames reached its peak at 5.25 meters (17 feet) above normal on Saturday evening.

Flooding was reported in some downtown businesses and approximately 13 individuals rescued from their homes including three children.

The high water placed significant pressure on drainage systems and dikes and some roads have been closed.

Although levels of the river are falling, officials are still warning residents to continue to avoid waterways and use extreme caution.

According to the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority, “high water levels can be expected on the Lower Thames into the middle of next week for areas through Chatham-Kent and Lakeshore.”

Thames river flooding in Chatham-Kent, Ontario, February 2018. Photo: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Ontario, Canada

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