Feb. 15, 2023 - Cataraqui Conservation has extended the current Water Safety Statement due to above-average flows and water levels, and the forecast for temperatures above zero.
Weather Situation:
Daytime highs may exceed 10º C today (Wednesday) and near 5º C tomorrow. There is also the possibility of some rainfall over the next few days. Temperatures are expected to fall back to seasonal sub-zero temperatures on Friday and then we can expect another few higher-than-average temperature days before settling back to seasonal sub-zero temperatures midweek next week.
Risks:
Streamflows and water levels are above average, following rainfall on February 9 and due to the ongoing thaw. The warmer temperatures will cause additional snowmelt runoff, sustaining or further increasing flows and water levels on streams and lakes.
Flows through water control structures are higher than normal as Water Managers increase discharge through dams to manage water levels on associated lakes.
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.
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 22, 2023, at 11:59 PM.
For up-to-date flooding information, please visit our flood forecasting and information page at https://cataraquiconservation.ca/pages/flood
See below for watershed conditions terminology:
Normal: No flood conditions exist
Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.
Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourse or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
Flood Warning: 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.