KAWARTHA LAKES-A Flood Outlook has been issued by Kawartha Conservation with potential for dangerous high water conditions in the Kawartha’s next week.
A Flood Outlook is an early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.
Environment Canada has predicted that over the next five days, due to high amounts of rain, the total amount of precipitation may total eight centimetres. Environment Canada is forecasting a very complex weather pattern over the next 3 days. A series of low pressure systems is expected to move through southern Ontario, including the Kawartha Conservation watershed, bringing a significant amount of rain, freezing rain, ice pellets and snow. It is predicted that the total amount of precipitation over the next 5 days may reach 80 mm
Rivers and streams within Kawartha Lakes are currently low. However, as a result of recent rain, the ground is currently saturated, and north of Fenelon Falls it is most likely frozen. These conditions mean the forecast precipitation is expected to have a significant amount drained, and water levels will increase.
Rivers and streams may reach or exceed their limits and flood, and water accumulation may occur in low-level areas, road ditches and areas with poor drainage.
Be prepared for not just rain and flooding, but freezing rain, ice pellets and snow. In preparation for the upcoming days, the Kawartha Lakes dams have space stored for extra water, but local watercourses may not be able to keep up with the weather and prevent temporary floods.
Under the expected conditions, all local rivers, streams and lakes should be considered dangerous, according to Kawartha Conservation. Riverbanks are expected to be slippery and any ice cover on water grounds is unsafe and hazardous.
People are advised to watch for areas known for minor flooding and be prepared to respond to high water situations. They are also advised to be careful on slippery roads and to not leave children unattended.
