Quinte Conservation is advising residents of the potential for nuisance flooding due to expected rainfall and warming temperatures.
As it announced a Watershed Conditions- Water Safety statement is in effect for the area, QC officials predict 30-35 mm of rainfall in the southern portions of the watershed and Prince Edward County over the next few days.
Areas north of Hwy 7 are expected to receive 20-25 mm of rainfall.
Warm temperatures may exceed 10C over the weekend, leading to significant snowpack reductions south of HWY 7. Prince Edward County may lose most or all of its snowpack in the next 7 days.
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 are not expected to flood at this time.
This winter has seen significant above average snow accumulation.
Currently, the snowpack throughout the watershed is about 150 to 200 percent of normal for this time of year. Melting snow is expected to be the principal factor in this year’s freshet. Snowmelt in the southern regions over the next 7 days is not expected to generate significant flooding issues.
Ice conditions may be compromised due to significant rain and higher flows.
During the period of this advisory, all ice surfaces should be considered dangerous and should be avoided. 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. Localized flooding is possible in flood-prone and low-lying areas.
Actions: Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas are reminded to take the necessary precautions to protect their property. 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.
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 17.
QC’s advisory follows a similar statement from Lower Trent Conservation on Thursday.
