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 from 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. 

A low-pressure system is forecasted to traverse through the watershed over the next several days. Air temperatures are expected to increase to slightly above the freezing mark, bringing with it the chance of ~2-5mm of rain/ snow mix on Tuesday. Temperatures will continue to increase slightly into Wednesday, with a chance of ~20-25mm of rain throughout the day, with the heaviest rainfall in the late afternoon/ evening. 

Water levels and flows along our local creeks and streams are average for this time of year. The forecasted rainfall and limited capacity of the snowpack to absorb the rain due to a present ice crust may result in runoff causing higher than normal flows and water levels in all watercourses within the Lower Trent Conservation watershed. Widespread flooding is not expected at this time; however, localized inundation of low-lying areas and poorly drained areas, and localized roadway ponding is possible.  

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 still cold. Additionally, river ice may start to break up and flow downstream. Minor ice jams are possible under these conditions; however, the volume of ice formed at this point in the season should not lead to significant ice jam concerns. 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 Outlook Statement for local creeks and streams will be in effect until Monday, March 10, 2025 at 12:00PM. 

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