FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 9, 2017
QUINTE CONSERVATION EXTENDS FLOOD OUTLOOK STATEMENT FOR THE MOIRA RIVER WATERSHED
Quinte Conservation has extended a Flood Outlook Statement for the Moira River, Black River near Actinolite, and the Skootamatta River. General Manager Terry Murphy says, “While these rivers are running high, residents can expect water levels below a typical spring runoff. This means properties that usually get wet in the spring may already be wet, or could expect water to encroach on their lawn. There may be some nuisance flooding of low lying lands.”
The Black River near Actinolite and the Moira River at Highway 7 have stabilized. The Skootamatta River is rising slowly and should peak early Friday. Stoco Lake is still rising and should peak tomorrow. The Moira River at Foxboro will continue to rise and peak Sunday. Current conditions are below a normal spring runoff.
Forecasts show the potential for below freezing temperatures for the next week and the rivers will stabilize over that time. Quinte Conservation staff will be monitoring conditions closely.
Quinte Conservation reminds residents to be extremely cautious about changing conditions along rivers, creeks, and streams. Parents and caregivers should remind children that 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 can be dangerous.
Residents should take care to monitor their sump pumps and ensure they are in good condition during this type of weather because of local ponding water.
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) Wednesday, March 15, 2017.