Effective until Monday, February 23, 2026 – The Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA) is advising that water levels and flows in all area watercourses are expected to increase significantly as a result of rain, potential thunderstorms, and snowmelt forecasted for February 20. Significant watercourse flooding has the potential to occur, along with localized flooding in low-lying areas that typically flood during higher water levels.
Forecasts indicate there is considerable uncertainty regarding the amount of runoff expected, given the combination of rainfall, potential thunderstorms, snowmelt, and frozen wet soil conditions within the watershed. Today (February 19), the Hamilton area is expected to receive between 1 and 4 mm of rain, along with approximately 5 mm of snowmelt runoff. On February 20, forecasts anticipate between 10 and 16 mm of rainfall, with an additional 5 to 10 mm possible if thunderstorms occur, and approximately 7 mm of snowmelt runoff. HCA staff continue to monitor watercourse, watershed, and weather conditions closely.
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.
Current water levels and flows are slightly elevated above baseflow conditions, and there are no significant water safety or watercourse flooding concerns at this time.
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.