Cataraqui Conservation has issued a Water Safety Statement due to the forecast for significant rainfall and periods of above zero temperatures.
Weather Situation: Rain, at times heavy, is expected today (Thursday) into tomorrow morning. The total amount is uncertain, but forecasts are calling for rainfall amounts of 15 – 35 mm+. Temperatures above zero will also contribute to the melting of some of the above average snowpack. There is a significant possibility for additional rainfall and higher-than-average temperatures to return next week, leading to more runoff and snowmelt.
Risks: Runoff from rain and snow melt will cause creek flows and levels to increase. As a result, lake levels will also be on the rise.
Flows through water control structures will be high as Water Managers increase discharge through dams to mitigate, as much as possible, the negative impacts from the expected inflows.
Cataraqui Conservation is urging caution around all dams (inflow and outflow channels) and fast-flowing watercourses. Respect the hazards in these areas by obeying all warning signs, and keep away from booms, buoys, and barriers. Stay well back from the water’s edge above and below dams and hydroelectric stations. Creek banks and lake shorelines may be slippery, increasing the chance of falling in.
A deterioration of ice conditions is also expected. Cataraqui Conservation does not measure ice thickness for advising the public about ice conditions for recreational activities. Ice conditions can vary considerably from one waterbody to the next and within a single water body.
The forecasted rainfall may also cause roadway ponding, which may be especially problematic in urban areas where storm drains and catchbasins are blocked by ice and snow.
Widespread flooding is NOT expected at this time. However, some localized inundation of low-lying areas may occur. If you witness flooding and/or require assistance your first point of contact is the local municipality.
Staff will continue to monitor conditions and forecasts and will update statements as needed. This Watershed Conditions Statement will remain in effect until (or updated before) Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at 11:59 PM.
For up-to-date flooding information, please visit our flood forecasting and information page at https://cataraquiconservation.