Lower Trent Conservation advises municipalities and the public that a Flood Watch has been issued for the Lower Trent Conservation watershed region (area stretching from Grafton to Quinte West and from Lake Ontario to Rice Lake).
The forecast of significant precipitation starting today through the weekend is anticipated to bring up to 75 mm of rain mixed with freezing rain for the watershed region.
Water levels and flows along local creeks and streams, including Mayhew, Cold, Rawdon, Burnley, Trout, Smithfield, Butler, Salt, Colborne, and Shelter Valley Creeks are currently near normal for this time of year. However, the forecast precipitation will result in increasing levels on these watercourses, which could be sharply elevated with increased runoff from rain falling on ice covered surfaces. The potential for flooding of access roads, backyards or basements in low-lying areas later in the weekend is possible.
Flows and water levels on the Trent River have been increasing this week as Parks Canada – Ontario Waterways (Trent-Severn Waterway) has been making adjustments at water control structures to accommodate runoff from the forecast precipitation. Residents living along the Trent River from Hastings to Trenton should anticipate further increases in water levels and flows for at least the next week. Residents should ensure their sump pumps are working and secure personal property (boats, docks, etc.) along the river banks.
It should be noted that there is still snow cover in the northern portion of the Trent River watershed. Current snow data indicates the equivalent of 20 to 60 mm of water in the remaining snow pack in these upper reaches of the watershed (Haliburton region).
Lower Trent Conservation will be maintaining daily contact through the weekend with the Trent Severn Waterway, provincial Surface Water Monitoring Centre, and neighbouring Conservation Authorities to ensure we are aware of all dam operations and conditions that may affect water levels along local waterways.
The public is urged to use extreme caution around all watercourses due to strong currents, cold water temperatures, and slippery stream banks. Parents and caregivers are advised to keep children away from all waterways. Areas around dams, culverts and bridges should be avoided at all times.
This Flood Watch will be in effect until Monday, April 16, 2018 and will be updated earlier if conditions warrant.
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.
ISSUED TO: Municipalities (Alnwick/Haldimand, Brighton, Centre Hastings, Cramahe, Quinte West, Stirling-Rawdon, Trent Hills), Northumberland & Hastings Counties, Ministry of Natural Resources & Forestry, Parks Canada – Ontario Waterways, Ontario Power Generation, Innergex, Media, Health Units, Emergency Response Agencies
Valid Until Monday April 16, 2018
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
