Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety
A band of steady rainfall tracked through the region overnight, bringing a wide range of precipitation totals. As of early this morning, 15-45mm was recorded, with heavier amounts generally falling in the eastern and northern regions of the watershed. The combination of rain and warm temperatures has ripened the snowpack, meaning it cannot hold any more water. This has generated localized areas of quick runoff.
Snowpack water equivalents were measured earlier this week and showed values ranging between 30 – 70mm water equivalent across the watershed. The rate of runoff and impacts on stream flows will vary depending on the localized rainfall and snowpack conditions. River levels are expected to approach bank-full conditions with flooding in low-lying areas.
These elevated flows are likely to break up river ice, which has the potential to cause flooding in non-traditional areas due to ice jams. A quick drop in temperatures is also expected today, which could result in flash freezing and jamming of drainage pathways. Municipal staff should monitor local problem areas and be prepared for the closures of low-lying roads.
Residents are reminded to use caution near all watercourses. Ice on rivers and ponds will become very unstable today. Slippery streambanks and extremely cold and fast-flowing water will combine to create hazardous conditions.
Maitland Conservation staff will be closely monitoring the situation over the next 48 hours and will provide an update if conditions change. This message will remain in place until 4:00 pm on Monday February 21, 2022.
Contact:
Jeff Winzenried, Water Resources Technician
[email protected] 519-357-0890
Media Contact:
Jayne Thompson, Communications Coordinator
[email protected], 519-335-3557 ext. 226 Cell: 519-357-6670
Types of Flood Messages:
Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety – General watershed conditions are being assessed for high runoff potential that could lead to flooding, and to remind the public of general river safety issues.
Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.
Flood Watch – Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take action to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.