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. However, a weather system is forecast to move into the region later this weekend bringing some mixed precipitation and above zero daytime temperatures. Further, another system is expected next week with more rain and temperatures above zero for over 24-hours.
Based on the survey results of the snow conditions across the Lower Trent Conservation watershed region, there is 40 mm of water equivalent in the current snow pack. Runoff from the rain combined with the snow melt could result in increased flows on small creeks and streams across the watershed region, including Mayhew, Cold, Rawdon, Mill, Trout, Butler, Salt, Colborne, and Shelter Valley Creeks.
No significant increases to water levels are anticipated for the Trent River at this time.
Ice break up on the local creeks could also result in ice jamming and cause further flood concerns. The Trent River and the Bay of Quinte, however, remain primarily ice covered and should be considered extremely unsafe.
With March Break upon us and children eager to venture outside, Lower Trent Conservation advises parents and caregivers that all local waterways are treacherous playgrounds for children. 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. Local waterways fed by snowmelt and rainfall can become extremely unpredictable and hazardous. 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.
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 http://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) Friday, March 15, 2019.
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
