FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 31, 2016
QUINTE CONSERVATION ISSUES FLOOD OUTLOOK STATEMENT DUE TO HEAVY RAIN
Quinte Conservation has issued a Flood Outlook Statement due to heavy rain. Water Resources Manager Christine McClure says, “Areas in our watershed north of highway 7 could see 60 millimetres of rain fall today. Flows in our river systems are still a little high and will get higher between now and early next week.”
McClure adds, “Water levels could get higher than they have so far this season. The smaller creeks and streams in our watershed will respond very quickly to this rain. People can expect to see ponding water in low lying areas. Urban areas may experience drainage issues.”
Quinte Conservation staff will be monitoring conditions closely. The public can keep up to date on flooding information by visiting www.quinteconservation.ca or following @quinteca on Twitter.
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 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 is valid until April 5, 2016.