Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook

By Gazette Staff

February 15th, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

Conservation Halton advises that this week will see mild temperatures and mixed precipitation which combined with antecedent conditions may lead to flooding.

Great to look at: treacherous if children get too close.

Daytime high temperatures are going to be above freezing this week, with Tuesday approaching double digits.

There is uncertainty surrounding the breakdown of the event, but a large Low pressure system will arrive Wednesday and bring significant precipitation in the form of snow or rain. Recent snow and ice monitoring indicates that the local water content of the snowpack is above our long-term average, and our rivers and creeks have significant channel ice cover. The snowpack will begin to melt with the warm temperatures and there is a risk of a rain-on-snow event for Wednesday, which has historically resulted in more significant spring freshet flooding and ice jams. The frozen ground will also increase runoff and contribute to elevated water levels.

Widespread flooding is not anticipated, however, fast flowing water and flooding of low-lying areas, natural floodplains, and areas with poor drainage may be expected.

Conservation Halton is asking all residents and children to keep a safe distance from all watercourses and structures such as bridges, culverts, and dams. Any ice-covered bodies of water are considered unsafe. Elevated water levels, fast flowing water, and cold water temperatures, combined with slippery conditions along stream banks continue to make these locations extremely dangerous. Please alert children in your care of these imminent dangers.

 Conservation Halton will continue to monitor stream and weather conditions and will issue an update to this Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook message as conditions warrant.

This Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook will be in effect through Friday February 20, 2026.