Rain may bring ‘nuisance flooding’

Quinte Conservation has issued a ‘Flood Outlook Statement’ for the potential of flooding for the Moira, Napanee, and Prince Edward Watersheds.

Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning as 30-40 mm of rain is expected today on top of already saturated ground. There is a possibility of about 2cm of snow tonight, mixed with strong wind gusts.

“With the rain we have received and what is in the forecast we can expect that smaller creeks and streams may over spill their banks,” said Terry Murphy, General Manger. “Larger rivers should be able to handle the rain with no major impacts. Properties that usually get wet in the spring may already be wet, or could expect water to encroach on their lawn. There may be some nuisance flooding of low lying lands.”

Murphy said residents should take care to monitor their sump pumps and ensure they are in good condition during this type of weather because of local ponding water.

“Lake levels across the region may rise and those with shoreline properties should take care to secure their personal property such as boats and docks.”

Quinte Conservation staff will be monitoring conditions and residents are advised to be extremely cautious about changing conditions along rivers, creeks, and streams.

“Parents and caregivers should remind children that stream banks will be slippery and treacherous. Dams and other water control structures should be avoided at all times due to strong currents. Even water in ditches can be dangerous.”

A Flood Outlook Statement gives 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.