Flood Forecasting and Warning

Status: Water Safety Statement

Spring-Like Conditions

Saturday, December 31, 2022 (12:00 PM)

Status: Water Safety Statement

The Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) is issuing a Water Safety Statement for the RRCA jurisdiction.

Snow is melting rapidly throughout eastern Ontario following two days of above-zero temperatures and rain. Temperatures are forecast to remain above zero through much of the next two days. During this time, a further 5-15 mm of rainfall is forecast for the region. Water levels in the region’s rivers and streams are already higher than normal for this time of year and are expected to continue to rise.

At this time, flooding is not expected. However, rivers and streams may reach water levels typically only seen during spring melt. The RRCA encourages residents to prepare as they usually do for spring, including taking extra caution near water bodies and securing items that may float away as water flows increase.

Water levels are expected to peak late on January 1. However, further rainfall forecast for January 3 could sustain high water levels through the next week.

This statement is in effect until Thursday, January 5, 2023, at 4:00 PM. The RRCA will continue monitoring water levels and weather forecasts as part of its flood forecasting and warning program. Updates will be provided if conditions change.

For more information: Halya Petzold, Resource Specialist, 613-938-3611 ext. 244, halya.petzold@rrca.on.ca

Media contact: Vincent Pilon, Public Information Coordinator, 613-938-3611 ext. 229, vincent.pilon@rrca.on.ca


About Flood Forecasting and Warning in the RRCA

The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) is responsible for flood related emergencies. Flood forecasting and warning has been delegated to Conservation Authorities. If a local emergency is declared, MNRF will work directly with the municipality and in consultation with the Conservation Authority.

The Raisin Region Conservation Authority monitors precipitation and water levels throughout Cornwall, South Glengarry, and large portions of North Glengarry and South Stormont.

About Flood Forecasting Notices

Normal
No flood conditions exist.

Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety
High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.

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.

In the event of a flood status of anything other than normal, the RRCA will issue a media release and advise our member municipalities.

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