Weather Situation:
Daytime highs above zero (possibly reaching 10 degrees Celsius on March 24) and above zero nighttime lows are forecast for the next few days. As much as 20 - 30 mm of rain is forecast for March 23 - 25.
Risks:
Though much of the snowpack has melted in the more southern areas of the region, a significant amount remains, especially further north and in the bush. The spring melt (freshet) continues. This snowmelt and recent rainfall have resulted in elevated water levels on inland lakes and streams. Lake levels have only just started to level off in some areas, but many continue to rise due to high inflows. The ground, still frozen or saturated in many areas, has limited ability to absorb additional rainfall. The forecasted rainfall and associated runoff are expected to increase water levels further.
Widespread flooding is NOT expected. However, flooding of low-lying areas is expected.
Areas targeted for this Flood Watch include:
- Upper Beverley Lake & Delta
- Lower Beverley Lake
- Singleton Lake
- Charleston Lake
- Gananoque Lake
- Gananoque River – the reach between Marble Rock Dam downstream to the 401 causeway (includes Marble Rock Road)
Residents in flood-prone or low-lying areas, historically susceptible to flooding, are advised to remove items stored in the floodplains of area watercourses and lakes.
If you witness flooding and/or require assistance your first point of contact is the local municipality. Affected residents are advised that sand and bags are available at the following municipal locations (2 separate municipalities):
Residents in the Township of Rideau Lakes
Municipal storage dome at 1410 County Road 8 in Philipsville - call first (613-561-5367)
Residents in the Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands
Main Township yard located at 1233 Prince Street in Lansdowne and at the Lyndhurst fire hall on County Road 33
Flows through water control structures are being managed to mitigate, as much as possible, negative impacts from the expected inflows. Water levels on inland lakes and streams may rise for several days from the forecasted rainfall and melt, and flows could remain high for weeks. Ice conditions continue to deteriorate.
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.
Staff will continue to monitor conditions and forecasts and update statements as needed. This Flood Watch will remain in effect until (or updated before) Wednesday, April 6, 2022, 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.