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 have been increasing with the ongoing warmer temperatures and associated melt water runoff that occurs at this time of year. Flows along the Trent River are also averagefor the end of winter conditions. Weather forecasts indicate two upcoming rain events tomorrow and Saturday, resulting in between 35 mm and 45 mm of rain in the next five days. Daytime temperatures are well above 0 °Celsius and even overnight temperatures are around freezing. Based on recent snow surveys there is approximately 50 mm of water being held in the snowpack that will be subject to melting with the higher temperatures and forecasted rain.

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.

Flows on the Trent River will be increasing as Parks Canada manages the runoff from our local streams and from the upper watershed but water levels on the Trent River are not expected to reach flooding levels. 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
Monday, March 27, 2023.

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