Lower Trent Conservation advises municipalities and the public that a Flood Outlook Statement has been issued for the local creeks within Lower Trent Watershed region (area stretching for Grafton to Quinte West and from Lake Ontario to Rice Lake and east to Centre Hastings) and the Trent River (Hastings to Trenton). It is important to note that during this time high water levels unsafe banks or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users and waterfront land owners. Nuisance flooding for some may occur.

Stream flows and water levels along our local creeks and streams are average for this time of year. Additionally, flows along the Trent River are also average for the end of the winter conditions. Weather forecasts indicate warm weather and periods of rain resulting in approximately 25 to 30mm of rain over the next five days. The majority of the snowpack in our watershed has melted; however, with the partially frozen/saturated ground conditions and warmer temperatures, additional runoff from the remaining snow and ice on the ground will contribute to the runoff and increased stream flows in our local creeks and streams.

Due to the current forecast and potential precipitation, Spring freshet conditions are likely to begin in the northern region of the Trent River watershed with increased flows and water levels expected locally within the next few weeks. Parks Canada- Ontario Waterways (Trent Severn Waterway) will be making adjustments at water control structures to accommodate the runoff from the rain and snowmelt occurring in the northern region of the Trent River watershed. Flows and water levels are expected to increase in the local streams through the week and into the weekend and higher flows and water levels are expected on the Trent River into next week with the local rain and snowmelt inputs coming from the north Trent River watershed. These higher flows on local streams and the Trent River may result in nuisance flooding in low-lying areas but widespread flooding is not anticipated at this time.

While the potential dangers presented by rivers, small streams and open ditches never cease to exist, they are of particular concern during these spring freshet conditions. Water currents could be strong and temperatures are still cold. Parents and caregivers are advised to keep children and pets away from all waterways.  Areas around dams, culverts and bridges should be avoided at all times. Any remaining river and lake ice are not safe at this time.

Lower Trent Conservation monitors water levels and weather forecasts closely as part of its flood forecasting and warning program. Daily water level updates are available at www.LTC.on.ca. If you have concerns about water levels, please contact Lower Trent Conservation at (613) 394-4829. Anyone having concerns about water levels on the Trent River can contact Parks Canada (705)-750-4950 or [email protected].

This Flood Outlook Statement for local creeks and streams and the Trent River will be in effect until Wednesday, April 5, 2023.

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