Quinte Conservation has issued a water safety statement due to a severe weather system that is set to bring large amounts of rainfall.
Weather forecasts for the Quinte Conservation Watershed predict 40 – 60 mm of rainfall, followed by wet snow from Thursday to Friday, with falling temperatures bringing sudden freezing conditions.
Runoff from rain and snowmelt will create a quick rise in water levels on major creeks and rivers, however, they are not forecasted to overtop their banks at this time. Nuisance flooding is likely to occur around small watercourses, urban areas, and ditches. Large river systems and inland lakes are not
expected to flood.Unstable ice conditions are expected due to warm temperatures, significant rains, and higher flows. The public is advised to exercise extreme caution when near rivers and waterbodies and to stay away from open and fast flowing water, culverts, dams, ice covered water, and banks. During the period of this advisory, all ice surfaces should be considered dangerous and should be avoided.
Residents in flood-prone or low–lying areas are reminded to take the necessary precautions to protect their property. Please ensure sump pumps are in good working condition and have easy access to a
portable backup generator and pump. Help reduce ponding by keeping ditches, culverts, and storm drains clear from obstructions.