Possibility of local flooding in Mississauga prompts warning to stay away from rivers

Mississauga residents are being alerted to the possibility of localized flash flooding and other dangers near rivers and streams in the wake of severe thunderstorms passing through the area this afternoon (Aug. 25).

Mississauga is among several cities in the GTA currently under a severe thunderstorm watch while Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville are under a tornado warning, according to Environment Canada.

Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) officials issued a Flood Outlook Statement for Mississauga that remains in effect until further notice.

“While no flooding is expected in the Credit River and its major tributaries, there is a possibility of localized flash floods and water pooling on roads and in flood-prone and low-lying urban areas,” the CVC said in its statement, noting that torrential rains last night could impact water levels and lead to other dangerous conditions around watercourses. “Streams and other waterways could become hazardous due to slippery and unstable banks, and from high water levels and fast-moving water.”

The CVC added that streams, rivers and shorelines could be hazardous, especially near culverts, bridges and dams.

“People are warned to stay away from all watercourses and to keep children and pets away.”

A Flood Outlook Statement is issued as an early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts of heavy rain, snow melt in the winter/spring, high winds and other conditions that could lead to high runoff, ice jams, shoreline flooding or erosion.

Based on the statement from CVC, City of Mississauga officials are also urging people to stay away from watercourses today.

⚠️A Flood Outlook is in effect for Mississauga. Please be safe:

🚫 Stay away from all watercourses
⛔️ Avoid stormwater ponds, culverts, streams & rivers
👀 Keep an eye on children & pets
📞 Call 311 to report flooding pic.twitter.com/9Ks7EY8Zoa

— City of Mississauga (@citymississauga) August 25, 2022