A Water Safety Statement is issued during high flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Nuisance flooding for some may occur.
Stream flows and levels across the Lower Trent Conservation watershed region are generally in the normal range for this time of year. Our local creeks responded to the 50 mm of rain received last weekend and are in the process of slowing down to seasonal flows again. However, a weather system is forecast to move into the region tonight and continuing through Thursday before tapering off on Friday. This system is expected to bring the 3-day rainfall accumulation in the 30-50 mm range with larger amounts forecast to fall along the north shore of Lake Ontario with some localized areas possibly receiving larger amounts.
While the potential dangers presented by rivers, small streams and open ditches never cease to exist, local waterways fed by rainfall can become extremely unpredictable and hazardous. Water currents are strong and water temperatures are cold. Parents and caregivers are advised to keep children and pets away from all waterways. Areas around dams, culverts and bridges should be avoided at all times.
Winds along the north shore of Lake Ontario may exceed 50 km/h with gusts up to 80 km/h beginning Thursday evening, continuing into Friday afternoon. Surge related flooding and erosion damage from high waves is possible during these periods of strong onshore winds. Residents should pay close attention to weather forecasts for approaching storm systems with high southeast, south or southwest winds.
Lower Trent Conservation monitors water levels and weather forecasts closely as part of its flood forecasting and warning program. Daily water level updates are available at www.LTC.on.ca. If you have concerns about water levels, please contact Lower Trent Conservation at (613) 394-4829. This Watershed Safety Statement will be in effect until (or updated before) Saturday, November 2, 2019.
