FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 5, 2016
FLOOD WARNING CONTINUES FOR MOIRA, NAPANEE AND SALMON RIVER WATERSHEDS
The Flood Warning issued by Quinte Conservation on Sunday remains in effect for the Moira, Napanee, and Salmon River watersheds. Water Resources Manager Christine McClure says, “We expect that water flows and levels will remain high for the next week and have the potential to get worse if we receive a large amount of rainfall in the next few days.”
McClure adds, “Weather forecasts for the next few days are conflicting. Depending on the temperature we will see either rain or snow. Heavy rainfall or snow followed by warm temperatures would mean that water levels could peak again, getting even higher than they have already.”
Quinte Conservation staff will be monitoring conditions closely and will update the flood message before next week if the forecasts change significantly or become more severe. The public can keep up to date on flooding information by visiting www.quinteconservation.ca or following @quinteca on Twitter.
As a result of the rain received last week levels in the Moira River system have peaked. Upper tributaries to the Moira River peaked over the weekend. Stoco Lake peaked on Sunday and the Moira River in Foxboro peaked on Monday. Levels and flows were close to a one in two year flood. There is a fifty per cent chance in any given year that spring runoff will reach those levels.
Lakes in the upper region of the Salmon River, such as Kennebec Lake and Big Clear Lake, have peaked. Beaver Lake and the Salmon River near Tamworth are slowly approaching their peak.
Levels in the Napanee River will remain high for an extended period of time.
There are no flooding concerns in Prince Edward County.
Quinte Conservation reminds residents to be extremely cautious about changing conditions along rivers, creeks, and streams. Stream banks will be slippery and treacherous. Dams and other water control structures should be avoided at all times due to strong currents. Even water in ditches and near culverts can be dangerous.
Residents should take care to monitor their sump pumps and ensure they are in good working condition.
A Flood Warning is issued when 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.
This message is valid until April 12, 2016.