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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 16, 2022
QUINTE CONSERVATION ISSUES A FLOOD OUTLOOK STATEMENT DUE TO WARMING TEMPERATURES AND RAINFALL
Weather forecasts for the Quinte Conservation Watershed predict 20-25 mm of rainfall from Friday to Sunday, with warming temperatures expected to stay above zero until Monday.
Runoff from rain and snow melt will create a quick rise in water levels on major creeks and rivers; however, they are not forecasted to over top their banks at this time. It is projected that this spring’s freshet will start to occur this weekend, with a series of peaks in river flows, starting with the first to occur early next week.
Current watershed conditions are fairly typical for this time of year. Snowmelt has been occurring slowly for several weeks already, with much of the snowpack being lost south of Highway 7. North of Highway 7 a significant amount of snow remains with slightly above normal water content in the most northerly areas. River flows are average for mid-March, which provide significant capacity to accommodate future increases.
Nuisance flooding is likely to occur around small watercourses, urban areas, and ditches. Large river systems and inland lakes are not expected to flood at this time.
Unstable ice conditions are expected due to warming temperatures and higher flows. The public is advised to exercise extreme caution when near rivers and waterbodies and to stay away from open and fast flowing water, culverts, dams, ice covered water, and banks.
Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas are reminded take the necessary precautions to protect their property. Please ensure sump pumps are in good working condition and to have easy access to a portable backup generator and pump. Help reduce ponding by keeping ditches, culverts, and storm drains clear from obstructions and secure items that might float away as flows increase.
Staff will continue to monitor conditions. For current water levels or to report changes in water levels, residents are encouraged to visit QuinteConservation.ca.
A FLOOD OUTLOOK STATEMENT gives 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.
This message will be in effect until (or updated before) March 25, 2022
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.
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For more information contact:
Dave Eastcott, Water Resources Technologist
(613) 968-3434 ext. 130 OR (613) 354-3312 ext. 126
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