Lower Trent Conservation has issued a water safety statement, warning of high water levels in the watershed region, which stretches from Grafton to Quinte West and from Lake Ontario to Rice Lake and east to Centre Hastings.
“It is important to note that during this time high water levels, unsafe banks and other factors could be dangerous for recreational users and waterfront landowners,” said the conservation authority. “Although flooding is not expected, localized inundation of low-lying and poorly drained areas may be possible.”
The low-pressure system that moved into the area Sunday-Monday brought anywhere from 25 to 45 millimetres of precipitation (or more depending on location.) Couple this with the Boxing Day snowstorm and officials noted this could cause more icy conditions, increased flows and nuisance flooding in low-lying areas.
While water levels along local creeks and streams are about average for this time of year, Lower Trent said increased water levels and stream flows are expected following recent precipitation and increased runoff from snowmelt.
Meanwhile, the winds that hit the region Monday are also expected to have an impact along Lake Ontario. The strong winds are forecasted to result in a storm surge, with waves exceeding 1.5 metres along the north shore and continuing intermittently until Wednesday evening.
Surge-related flooding and erosion damage from high waves is possible during these periods of strong onshore winds, explained officials.
Residents should ensure personal property like boats, docks, et cetera, along the shoreline are secured.
“While the potential dangers presented by lakes, rivers, small streams and open ditches never cease to exist, they are of particular concern during these conditions,” reiterated Lower Trent. “Water currents could be strong and temperatures are cold.”
What’s more, river ice may start to break up and flow downstream, and minor ice jams are possible under current conditions, added officials.
However, it isn’t currently believed that the volume of ice formed at this point in the season should lead to significant ice jam concerns.
Parents and caregivers are urged to keep kids and pets away from all waterways and areas around dams, culverts and bridges should be avoided at all times, stressed the conservation authority.
River and lake ice are also not safe at this time, added officials.
Lower Trent’s water safety statement is in effect until Friday, Jan. 2 at noon.
