Mild temperatures and forecast rainfall will cause water levels to increase throughout the Moira, Napanee, and Prince Edward watersheds. The warmer temperatures could cause some localized or nuisance flooding of smaller creeks and ditches. Some low-lying land may see some ponded water. Residents should take care to monitor their sump pumps and ensure they are in good working condition during this type of weather.
Water Resources Manager Christine McClure says, “Quinte Conservation is urging members of the public to be extremely cautious around local waterways. Ice that was safe earlier may be thinner due to warming temperatures.”
McClure adds, “We are advising local residents to stay off all ice covered water bodies and to remind children about the dangers of playing on or near ice covered surfaces or fast flowing water in ditches and smaller creeks.”
Hypothermia is a major concern for anyone who is in areas where they could fall into open water.
Quinte Conservation warns the public that stream banks should be avoided in the winter. Ice and snow make footing unpredictable and frigid open water conditions are extremely dangerous. Areas around dams, culverts and bridges should be avoided at all times. While Quinte Conservation does not measure ice thickness for recreational activities, the organization provides information on watershed safety conditions.
Quinte Conservation is issuing a Water Safety Statement regarding the changing ice conditions. A Water Safety Statement indicates that high flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for users such as anglers, boaters, swimmers, children or pets. Flooding is not expected.
This message will be in effect until (or updated before) Friday, February 23, 2018.
-30-
For more information contact: Christine McClure, Water Resources Manager (613) 968-3434 ext. 130 OR (613) 354-3312 ext. 130
