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). 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.
Water levels along our local creeks and streams are average for this time of year and flows along the Trent
River are also average for winter conditions. Weather forecasts for tonight and Friday are indicating daytime
temperatures above 0 °Celsius and even overnight tonight and up to 20 mm of rain on Friday. Based on snow
surveys conducted this week there is approximately 50 to 90 mm of water being held in the snowpack that
will be subject to melting with the higher temperatures and forecasted rain. Looking further ahead, there
does not appear to be significant precipitation and the daytime temperatures are above freezing while the
nighttime temperatures are well below freezing, indicating a slower melt period next week.
With the partially frozen ground conditions and warmer temperatures, additional runoff from the snow and
ice on the ground will contribute to the runoff and stream flows in our local creeks and streams. These higher
flows on local streams may result in nuisance flooding in low-lying areas but widespread flooding is not
anticipated.
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. 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
Monday, March 20, 2023.

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