CRCA Water Safety Statement Issued for Inland Lakes & Streams – April 9th

Kingston – Cataraqui Conservation has issued a Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety due to forecasted rainfall in the coming days. Residents and visitors to the Cataraqui Region should exercise caution around water bodies as there is the possibility of high water levels and flows.

Weather Situation: Approximately 30 – 45 mm+ of rain is forecast for April 10 through April 14.

Risks: Many streamflows have only recently fallen back down to normal levels, following the heavy rain received on April 3. Water Managers are already reporting above-average water levels on managed lakes and high discharge rates through dams. Discharge through dams and water levels will be increasing, and Water Managers will continue to monitor water levels closely to limit, as much as possible, negative impacts from this additional runoff.

Forecasts vary and include uncertainty. If the rainfall received is at the higher end of the forecasted range, and especially if it occurs over a short period of time, inland lakes and streams may rise quickly.

Cataraqui Conservation is urging caution, particularly around all dams (inflow and outflow channels), fast-flowing watercourses, and stormwater ponds. 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.

Widespread flooding is NOT expected at this time. However, localized inundation of low-lying and poorly drained areas is possible. 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 17, 2024, 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.