Lower Trent Conservation advises municipalities and the public that a Flood Watch Statement for the Trent River has been issued. 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 landowners. Nuisance or minor flooding of roads, backyards, basements etc., for some may occur. 

A slow-moving low-pressure system will bring light snowfall and warmer air temperatures for Wednesday through Saturday followed by an arctic air mass which is forecasted to bring extremely low air temperatures into the region on Saturday night. Air temperatures are expected to be in the minus 20s for Sunday and into next week. 

Although, reduced water levels and warmer air temperatures have diminished the affects of frazil ice and reduced the flooding conditions in the area over the past few days, the forecasted cold air temperatures through next week brings the potential for frazil ice generation that may result in ice jamming and possible flooding. Frazil ice is an ice formation that occurs when there is a lack of ice cover and exposure of the water surface to cold temperatures and/or wind chills below -18 degrees Celsius.  These conditions trigger the formation of frazil ice which can accumulate quickly on bridge abutments, piers and riverbanks and block the flow of water.  

Residents living along any flowing water bodies should pay careful attention to water levels as the accumulation of frazil ice may result in frazil ice jamming and rapid unpredictable increases in water levels. Fluctuating water levels are expected to occur during these cold weather conditions. High water levels could cause flooding of driveways, access roads or buildings located in low-lying areas. Residents should ensure their sump pumps are working and secure personal property (boats, docks, etc.) along river banks. These extreme cold temperatures will cause flood waters to freeze and cause dangerous conditions.  

While the potential dangers presented by rivers, small streams and open ditches never cease to exist, they are of particular concern during these conditions. Water currents could be strong and temperatures are cold. Additionally, sheet ice cover that has formed on lakes and river should be considered unsafe. 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. 

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 Watch Statement for the Trent River will be in effect until Thursday, January 23 at 12:00PM.