Cataraqui Conservation has issued a Water Safety Statement due to the forecast for significant rainfall and above zero temperatures, and is asking residents and visitors to the Cataraqui Region to exercise caution near shorelines and waterways.
Weather Situation: Total rainfall amounts of 25 – 45 mm+ are forecasted for December 28 - 31. Temperatures are expected to remain above zero December 28 to January 1, reaching as high as 10 degrees C on Dec 29 and 30.
Risks: Runoff from the forecasted rain and snow melt over the next few days is expected to produce elevated water levels and flows on watercourses, and flows through dams could be elevated as Water Managers increase discharge to limit, as much as possible, the negative impacts from the expected inflows of additional water. Despite these operations, water levels are still expected to rise.
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.
The warmer temperatures and higher flows could also result in a deterioration of ice conditions. 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. No ice is without some risk. Visit lifesaving.org for ice safety information.
Widespread flooding is NOT expected at this time. However, localized inundation of low-lying and poorly drained areas, and localized roadway ponding, is possible. 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) Monday, January 6, 2025, at 11:59 PM.
For up-to-date flooding information, please visit our flood forecasting and information page at https://cataraquiconservation.ca/pages/flood