The following statement was released by the Lower Trent Conservation
FLOOD OUTLOOK STATEMENT FOR LOCAL CREEKS
Lower Trent Conservation advises municipalities and the public that a Flood Outlook Statement has been issued for the local creeks within Lower Trent Watershed region (area stretching for 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 water levels unsafe banks or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users and waterfront land, owners. Nuisance flooding for some may occur.
Water levels along our local creeks and streams are fairly average for this time of year. However, the 5-day weather forecasts indicate there will be periods of heavy rain resulting in approximately 45-60 mm of precipitation. This rain event will likely cause a surge of higher flows through our local creeks and streams for the next few days, especially during and after the rain event.
While the potential dangers presented by rivers, small streams and open ditches never cease to exist, they are of particular concern during these spring freshet conditions. Water currents could be strong and temperatures are still 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.
WATER SAFETY STATEMENT FOR TRENT RIVER
Lower Trent Conservation advises municipalities and the public that we are extending the previously issued Water Safety Statement for the Trent River from Hastings to Trenton.
A steady decline in flows and water levels has occurred since observing peak flows on April 7, 2023. The peak water level and flows did not reach the levels observed in 2014. There is approximately 45-60 mm of rain forecast for the next 5 days. With the ground being somewhat saturated and the periods of rain over this past week, it is anticipated that this rain event could impact Trent River flows and water levels. As such, the flows and levels of the Trent River may increase as a result of ongoing operations by Parks Canada-Ontario Waterways (Trent-Severn Waterway) over the next few days.
Lower Trent Conservation will be maintaining contact through the weekend with Parks Canada, the Provincial Surface Water Monitoring Centre and neighbouring Conservation Authorities to ensure we are aware of all dam operations and conditions that may affect the water levels on local waterways.
While the potential dangers presented by rivers, small streams and open ditches never cease to exist, they are of particular concern during these spring freshet conditions. Water currents could be strong and temperatures are still 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. Any remaining river and lake ice are not safe at this time.
