Expect nuisance flooding with rain, warmer temperatures

UPDATE MARCH 10: Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the County of Prince Edward as significant rainfall of up to 35 mm is expected over the next few days.

Rising water levels and an increased risk of localized flooding are possible as the rain combines with the rapidly melting snowpack.

Localized flooding is likely to occur around small watercourses, urban areas, and ditches. Large river systems and inland lakes are not expected to flood at this time.

The public is advised that all ice surfaces should be considered dangerous and should be avoided. Please use extreme caution when near bodies of water and stay away from open and fast flowing water, culverts, dams, ice covered water, and banks.

Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas are reminded to take the necessary precautions to protect their property. Ensure sump pumps are in good working condition and help reduce ponding by keeping ditches, culverts, and storm drains clear from obstructions.

MARCH 7 – Quinte Conservation is advising residents of the potential for nuisance flooding due to expected rainfall and warming temperatures.

Weather forecasts for the Quinte watershed predict 30-35 mm of rainfall in the southern portions of the watershed and Prince Edward County over the next few days. Areas north of Hwy 7 are expected to receive 20-25 mm of rainfall. Warm temperatures may exceed 10C over the weekend, leading to significant snowpack reductions south of Hwy 7.

Dave Eastcott, Water Resources Technologist with Quinte Conservation notes it is possible Prince Edward County may lose most or all of its snowpack in the next seven days.

“This winter has seen significant above average snow accumulation. Currently, the snowpack throughout the watershed is about 150 to 200 per cent of normal for this time of year. Melting snow is expected to be the principal factor in this year’s freshet. Snowmelt in the southern regions over the next seven days is not expected to generate significant flooding issues.”

“Runoff from rain and snowmelt will create a rise in water levels on small creeks. Nuisance flooding is likely to occur around small watercourses, urban areas, and ditches. Large river systems and inland lakes are not expected to flood at this time,” he states.

Ice conditions will also be compromised due to significant rain and higher flows.

“During the period of this advisory, all ice surfaces should be considered dangerous and should be avoided. The public is advised to exercise extreme caution when near rivers and waterbodies and to stay away from open and fast flowing water, culverts, dams, ice covered water, and banks. Localized flooding is possible in flood-prone and low-lying areas.”

Actions: Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas are reminded to take the necessary precautions to protect their property. Ensure sump pumps are in good working condition and have access to a portable backup generator and pump. Help reduce ponding by keeping ditches, culverts, and storm drains clear from obstructions.