Lower Trent Conservation advises municipalities and the public that a Flood Outlook Statement has been continued for the Lower Trent Watershed region (area stretching from Grafton to Quinte West and from Lake Ontario to Rice Lake and east to Centre Hastings). It is important to note that during this time high flows, unsafe banks or other factors 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 watershed region are above average for this time of year due to recent precipitation events and warming temperatures. Another event is expected to pass through Ontario with rain or freezing rain expected to begin tonight and persist into Tuesday. Freezing rain is expected to transition to rain during the day with the rain heavy at times tomorrow. Rain is expected to come to an end Tuesday night.
The amount of rain forecast is 20 mm but with the frozen ground conditions and warmer temperatures, additional runoff from the snow and ice on the ground will contribute to the runoff and streamflows in our local creeks and streams. These higher flows on local streams may result in nuisance flooding in low-lying areas but widespread flooding is not anticipated.
While the potential dangers presented by rivers, small streams and open ditches never cease to exist, they are of particular concern at this time of the year. Water currents are strong and temperatures dangerously 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.
LTC staff will be monitoring the situation and update as necessary. 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.
THE ABOVE IS PROVIDED BY LOWER TRENT CONSERVATION
