Kawartha Conservation Says Flooding Possible In Low-Lying Areas With Poor Drainage

The statement is based on conditions received from Kawartha Conservation Flood Forecasting Network, Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – Surface Water Monitoring Centre, Environment Canada and the Trent-Severn Waterway.

A series of low-pressure systems is crossing the province over the next several days (Tuesday to Sunday) with 12 to 16cm of snow combined with around 10mm of rain expected on Tuesday through Wednesday morning. Snow may be heavy at times with a risk of freezing rain. The snow is expected to change to rain Tuesday evening, January 9 as temperatures rise above the freezing mark.

Currently flows and water levels are mostly near or below average and declining for this time of the year. The forecasted rain and snowmelt, in areas that have snow from recent snow events, could produce localized runoff and elevate water levels. As such, some areas may experience an increased risk of overland flow. Flooding in low-lying areas and areas with poor drainage is also possible within the Kawartha Conservation jurisdiction.

Widespread flooding is not anticipated, however, water levels and flows in watercourses across the Kawartha Conservation jurisdiction will rise over the next few days, resulting in higher volume and faster flowing water due to the extended period of precipitation.
All watercourses have the potential to be dangerous during extended rain and snow events and riverbanks are slippery at this time of year, therefore Kawartha Conservation is warning all residents to stay a safe distance from all streams and rivers, as well as water structures such as bridges, culverts, and dams. There have not been sufficient cold temperatures in the Kawartha Conservation jurisdiction to freeze lakes and rivers and all ice conditions should also be considered unsafe. Children should be warned of the dangerous conditions and supervised while outside.This Watershed Condition Statement – Water Safety will be in effect through Sunday, January 14, 2024.

Kawartha Conservation will continue monitoring local watercourses and notify the public and municipalities within its watershed jurisdiction of any changes.

If you are aware of or have concerns about flooding, please contact Kawartha Conservation at 705-328-2271 or 705-344-0155 after hours.