(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
A Flood Watch is issued when there is a potential for flooding to occur in low-lying areas. Nuisance or minor flooding of access roads, backyards, basements, etc. is anticipated. Buildings/people are not at risk.
Issued to: Municipalities (Quinte West, Stirling-Rawdon, Trent Hills), Ministry of Natural Resources, Parks Canada – Ontario Waterways, Ontario Power Generation, Innergex, Media, Health Units,
Emergency Response Agencies
Valid until Thursday, January 16, 2025 at 12:00 PM
Lower Trent Conservation advises municipalities and the public that a Flood Watch Statement for the Trent River between Trent Severn Dams #7 at Glen Ross and Dam #6 at Frankford has been issued. 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 landowners. Nuisance or minor flooding of roads, backyards, basements etc., for some may occur.
Ice jams have started to occur within the area of the Trent River between Glen Ross and Frankford, which is resulting in increased water levels in localized areas. Residents living along any flowing water bodies should pay careful attention to water levels as the accumulation of frazil ice may result in frazil ice jamming and rapid unpredictable increases in water levels. Fluctuating water levels are expected to occur during these cold weather conditions.
The Trent-Severn Waterway is making operational changes to water control structures in the affected area to moderate rising water levels. Fluctuating water levels will be experienced during these operations.
High water levels could cause flooding of driveways, access roads or buildings located in low-lying areas.
Residents should ensure their sump pumps are working and secure personal property (boats, docks, etc.)
along river banks. These extreme cold temperatures will cause flood waters to freeze and cause dangerous conditions.
While the potential dangers presented by rivers, small streams and open ditches never cease to exist, they are of particular concern during these conditions. Water currents could be strong and temperatures are still cold.
Additionally, river ice may start to break up and flow downstream. 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 www.LTC.on.ca. If you have concerns about water levels, please contact Lower Trent Conservation at (613) 394-4829. Anyone having concerns about water levels on the Trent River can contact Parks Canada (705)-750-4950 or trentsevern@pc.gc.ca.
This Flood Watch Statement for the Trent River will be in effect until Thursday, January 16 at 12:00PM.
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
