FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 24, 2020
QUINTE CONSERVATION ISSUES A WATER SAFETY STATEMENT DUE TO MILD WEATHER WITH LARGE AMOUNTS OF RAIN AND SNOW EXPECTED THROUGHOUT THE REGION
Local weather forecasts for the Quinte Conservation Watershed are predicting 20-40 mm of mixed precipitation, with rain and freezing rain followed by heavy snow, Friday night into Sunday. Flows are above normal for this time of year as rivers and creeks have not recovered from the last rain event. Creeks, streams, and rivers will rise rapidly in response to rain and runoff. Flooding on major river systems is not expected.
Water Resources Technician Dave Eascott says, “There is potential for a quick response in water levels in creeks and rivers; However, we are not expecting them to overtop their banks at this time.”
Nuisance flooding is possible around small watercourses, urban areas, and ditches. Large river systems and inland lakes are not expected to flood at this time.
Ice conditions are expected to deteriorate during this period and can make for unstable banks and dangerous water conditions. The public is advised to stay away from open and fast flowing water, culverts, dams, ice covered water, and banks.
Residents are reminded to make sure their sump pumps are in good working condition and to 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) January 28, 2020