Cataraqui Conservation Issues Water Safety Statement for Inland Lakes & Streams

Cataraqui Conservation has issued a Water Safety Statement due to the forecast for significant rainfall and is asking residents and visitors to the Cataraqui Region to exercise caution near shorelines and waterways.

Weather Situation: Between 20 and 45 mm+ of rain has been forecasted for tomorrow (Wednesday, April 5) with the possibility of additional rainfall early in the week of April 10.

Risks: Runoff from recent snowmelt and rainfall events has increased streamflows and water levels on inland lakes, many of which are already high for this time of year. Flows through dams are elevated as Water Managers increase discharge to limit, as much as possible, the negative impacts from the expected inflows of additional water. Despite these operations, water levels are still expected to rise further from the forecast rain.

Cataraqui Conservation is urging caution around all dams (inflow and outflow channels) and fast-flowing watercourses. Respect the hazards in these areas by obeying all warning signs, and keep away from booms, buoys, and barriers. Stay well back from the water’s edge above and below dams and hydroelectric stations. Creek banks and lake shorelines may be slippery, increasing the chance of falling in.

In areas where ice is still present, a deterioration of ice conditions is expected. Cataraqui Conservation 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 water body.

Widespread flooding is NOT expected at this time. However, localized inundation of low-lying and poorly drained areas, and roadway ponding, can be expected. If you witness flooding and/or require assistance your first point of contact is the local municipality.

Staff will continue to monitor conditions and forecasts and will update statements as needed. This Watershed Conditions Statement will remain in effect until (or updated before) Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at 11:59 PM.

For up-to-date flooding information, please visit our flood forecasting and information page at https://cataraquiconservation.ca/pages/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.