The weather forecast for this weekend and into next week has prompted Quinte Conservation to issue a water safety statement.
The forecast shows a warming trend with chance of precipitation, which will cause the snowpack to ripen, increased runoff and, higher flows.
Quinte Conservation wants like to remind the public to exercise caution around ice-covered and open water as changing temperatures and rainfall may create unstable ice conditions on rivers, streams, and lakes.
Water Resources Manager Christine McClure says, “It is important to stay away from stream banks as they may be slippery and treacherous. Hypothermia is a real concern for anyone who falls into the water, even in a ditch or small creek.”
Quinte Conservation staff will be monitoring water levels and conditions closely. In the case of above freezing temperatures and significant rainfall, there may be a potential for nuisance flooding.
Residents should take care to monitor their sump pumps and ensure they are in good condition during this type of weather because of local ponding water.
Flooding is not expected.
