Lower Trent Conservation advises municipalities that a Water Safety Statement has been issued for the local creeks and streams within the 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. Although flooding is not expected, localized inundation of low-lying and poorly drained areas may be possible.

Although water levels throughout our local creeks and streams are average for this time of year, a low-pressure storm system interacting with the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby is moving along Lake Ontario and is anticipated to give heavy rainfall throughout eastern Ontario. Starting today and continuing through Friday, heavy rainfalls are expected. Light rain is forecasted to continue over the weekend. Current forecasts indicate that rainfall up to 50 mm are expected over the course of Thursday and Friday with a potential for additional rainfall in isolated areas.

The forecasted rainfall will result in higher than normal water levels and flows along the smaller creeks and streams in the region. Watercourses including Shelter Valley, Colborne, Butler, Smithfield, Mayhew, Mill and Trout Creeks will respond quickly to intense periods of rainfall and may rise quickly.

Municipalities and the public should be aware that localized inundation is possible in urban areas where storm drains may not be able to handle runoff during heavy downpours.

The public is urged to exercise caution around all watercourses due to strong currents. Areas around dams, culverts and bridges should be avoided at all times. Parents and caregivers are advised to keep children away from all waterways.

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 Water Safety Statement for local creeks and streams will be in effect until Monday, August 12, 2024.