Beaver Staff
Despite a gradual decline of water levels on Lake Ontario and the Bay of Quinte shorelines in recent weeks, a flood warning for these areas will remain in effect until August, says Quinte Conservation.
Quinte Conservation Water Resources Manager Christine McClure says water levels peaked in May and have been dropping ever since. “It is expected that water levels will continue to decline throughout the summer. However, wind, waves, and widespread heavy rainfall can create short term higher water levels along shorelines, like those experienced over the weekend,” she said in an official statement released on Wednesday.
“The high water levels caused shoreline erosion and debris to accumulate along shorelines,” she added.
The conservation authority encourages shoreline residents to contact their local municipalities for information on the proper disposal of sandbags and debris. Sand from sandbags should never be disposed of into waterways or within areas that experienced flooding, Quinte Conservation advises.
Shoreline residents are also reminded that any work near the water will require a permit from Quinte Conservation; they should call the office or visit the conservation authority website at www.QuinteConservation.ca for more information. Quinte Conservation staff can provide advice on shoreline protection.
All residents near flooded areas should take care during flooding conditions, the conservation authority advises. Floodwater may be deeper than it appears and often contains hidden snags and debris. Parents and caregivers should keep children well away from floodwaters; they are not safe for wading.
Quinte Conservation encourages residents experiencing flooding to report their conditions and seek shoreline protection advice using an online form. The form can be found at: https://www.cognitoforms.com/QuinteConservation1/_2017LakeOntarioAndBayOfQuinteHighWaterSurvey or on the main page of the Quinte Conservation website.
Quinte Conservation says its staff will be monitoring conditions closely.
A flood warning means flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take action to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.
Quinte Conservation says this warning will be in effect until (or updated before) Thursday, Aug. 3.
Quinte Conservation is a community-based environmental protection agency. It serves 18 municipalities in the watersheds of the Moira, Napanee and Salmon Rivers and Prince Edward County. It provides cost-effective environmental expertise and leadership. Quinte Conservation’s main goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem where people and nature live in harmony. More information about Quinte Conservation is available at www.quinteconservation.ca.