Coloured bar highlighting yellow to indicate a water safety statement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 4, 2025

QUINTE CONSERVATION ISSUES A WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT - WATER SAFETY DUE TO ANTICIPATED LARGE AMOUNTS OF RAINFALL

Weather forecasts for the Quinte Conservation Watershed over the next few days predict 30-35 mm of rainfall in the southern portions of the watershed and Prince Edward County. Areas north of Hwy 7 are expected to receive 20-25 mm of rainfall.

Runoff from rain and snowmelt will create a rise in water levels on small creeks. Nuisance flooding is likely to occur around small watercourses, urban areas, and ditches. Large river systems and inland lakes will not respond to increased flows and are not expected to flood at this time.

Ice conditions may be compromised due to significant rain 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. During the period of this advisory, all ice surfaces should be considered dangerous and should be avoided.

Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas are reminded to take the necessary precautions to protect their property. Please ensure sump pumps are in good working condition and have access to a portable backup generator and pump. Help reduce ponding by keeping ditches, culverts, and storm drains clear from obstructions.

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 WATER SAFETY STATEMENT indicates that high flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for users such as anglers, boaters, swimmers, children, or pets. Flooding is not expected.

This message will be in effect until (or updated before) March 10, 2025

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. 126 OR (613) 354-3312 ext. 126