‘Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety’ Statement Extended

Published on: 2019/03/28 - in Releases

broken ice

RELEASE — The Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority (CRCA) has extended the current Water Safety Statement for the region.

UPDATE – MARCH 29, 2019:

The Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority (CRCA) has updated the current Water Safety Statement for the region today.

Minimal snowpack remains throughout the watershed following what has been a relatively orderly spring thaw.

Creek flows remain elevated from the ongoing melt and some are slightly above seasonal norms. Weather forecasts indicate 25 – 40 mm of precipitation on Saturday, March 30 and into the morning of Sunday, March 31, most of which is expected to fall as rain, but forecasts suggest some of it may fall as snow, ice pellets, or freezing rain. Uncertainty remains as to the total amounts and form of precipitation.

This rainfall will continue to impact flows and raise levels further due to increased runoff in areas where the ground is still frozen and ice covered. If the higher forecasted precipitation amounts occur, some lakes, creeks and rivers may experience higher than normal spring levels, potentially leading to localized flooding of low-lying areas.

Widespread flooding is NOT expected at this time. However, if you witness flooding and/or require assistance your first point of contact is the local municipality.

Ice conditions in the region have deteriorated considerably in recent weeks

Water managers continue to operate area dams to pass flows down through the system. Seasonal lake level increases have begun.

CRCA is urging residents to use caution, to stay off the ice, away from dams (inflow and outflow channels) and fast flowing watercourses. Creek banks and lake shorelines may be slippery, increasing the chance of falling in. Ice accumulation in creeks, ditches, culverts, etc. may restrict flows, potentially leading to localized flooding of low-lying areas.

CRCA does not measure ice thickness for advising the public about ice conditions for recreational activities. Ice conditions can vary considerably from one waterbody to the next and within a single waterbody.

Staff will continue to monitor conditions and forecasts and will update statements as needed. This Watershed Conditions Statement will remain in effect until April 10, 2019.
For up to date flooding information, please visit the CRCA’s flood forecasting and information page at www.crca.ca/flood.


Original March 28, 2019 report:

Minimal snowpack remains throughout the watershed following what has been a relatively orderly spring thaw.

Creek flows remain elevated from the ongoing melt and are slightly above seasonal. Weather forecasts are uncertain, indicating a range of 10-38 mm of rain for the period of March 28th through 31st. This rainfall will continue to impact flows and raise levels further due to increased runoff in areas where the ground is still frozen and ice covered. Ice accumulation in creeks, ditches, culverts, etc. may restrict flows, potentially leading to localized flooding of low-lying areas.

Widespread flooding is NOT expected at this time. However, if you witness flooding and/or require assistance your first point of contact is the local municipality.

Ice conditions in the region have deteriorated considerably in recent weeks.

Water managers continue to operate area dams to pass flows down through the system. Seasonal lake level increases have begun.

CRCA is urging residents to use caution, to stay off the ice, away from dams (inflow and outflow channels) and fast flowing watercourses. Creek banks and lake shorelines may be slippery, increasing the chance of falling in.

CRCA does not measure ice thickness for advising the public about ice conditions for recreational activities. Ice conditions can vary considerably from one waterbody to the next and within a single waterbody.

Staff will continue to monitor conditions and forecasts. We may update this statement ahead of this coming weekend if forecasted rainfall amounts increase. This Watershed Conditions Statement will remain in effect until April 10, 2019.

For up to date flooding information, please visit the CRCA’s flood forecasting and information page at www.crca.ca/flood.


See below for watershed conditions terminology:

Normal: No flood conditions exist

Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.

Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook: 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.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourse or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take action to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.


Release: CRCA.ca
Photo (cropped): Dave Bloggs (cc)