Weekend mix of rain, freezing rain and snow

Ice huts on the Bay of Quinte between the County and Belleville. – Adam Miller photo

With flows already above normal and a forecast for 20-40mm of mixed precipitation this weekend, Quinte Conservation has issued a water safety statement with the possibility of nuisance flooding.

Rain and freezing rain turning to snow is expected Friday night into Sunday.

“Flows are above normal for this time of year as rivers and creeks have not recovered from the last rain event,” said Dave Eascott, water resources technician. “Creeks, streams, and rivers will rise rapidly in response to rain and runoff. Flooding on major river systems is not expected.”

He notes nuisance flooding is possible around small watercourses, urban areas, and ditches. Large river systems and inland lakes are not expected to flood at this time.

Ice conditions are expected to deteriorate during this period and can make for unstable banks and dangerous water conditions. The public is advised to stay away from open and fast flowing water, culverts, dams, ice covered water and banks.

Residents are reminded to make sure their sump pumps are in good working condition and to help reduce ponding by keeping ditches, culverts, and storm drains clear from obstructions.

A water safety statement indicates that high flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for users such as anglers, boaters, swimmers, children or pets. Flooding is not expected.