Lower Trent Conservation (LTC) advises municipalities and the public of the following watershed conditions for the Lower Trent watershed region (an area stretching from Quinte West to Grafton and from Lake Ontario to Rice Lake). This bulletin is intended to provide information on the existing conditions of local water levels. Based on the current weather forecast, a change in these conditions is possible.
Another significant weather system will be moving into the region over the next several days bringing with it a mix of snow and rain and warmer temperatures. Lower Trent Conservation staff is closely monitoring weather forecasts to determine the potential impact on local water levels. The amount of snow/rain mix, intensity of rainfall and degree of snowmelt will be key factors.
Current water levels on most creeks and streams through the region remain elevated following last weekend’s rainfall which ranged between 30 and 50 millimetres over a 24 hour period. Most small waterways reached at least top of bank conditions, flooding a few backyards and rural roads. Water levels on the Trent River have remained stable.
There is the equivalent of 45 to 50 millimetres of water within the current snow cover on the ground. With frozen ground conditions and a saturated snow pack, the potential for increased runoff to local waterways from rainfall and snowmelt exists over the next several days.
As ice cover exists on many waterways within the region, municipalities and the public are advised of the potential for ice breakup which may cause ice jams at bridges and culverts. Everyone should ensure all drains, catch basins and culverts are clear of debris, and that sump pumps are in working order.
Everyone, especially children, should stay away from all waterways as unstable ice, slippery stream banks and frigid open water conditions are very dangerous. Areas around dams, culverts and bridges should be avoided at all times.
Lower Trent Conservation staff will be closely monitoring water levels and weather forecasts as part of its flood forecasting and warning program. Anyone with concerns about water levels can call Lower Trent Conservation at (613) 394-4829