Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety - April 26, 2024

Based on information received from Environment Canada, Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry - Surface Water Monitoring Centre and Trent-Severn Waterway, Kawartha Conservation is issuing a Watershed Conditions Statement for the coming days, April 26^th – 29^th.

A low-pressure weather system is forecast to bring widespread rain starting Saturday, continuing into early next week, with 10-20 mm of rain expected this weekend with the potential for more localized rainfall due to thunderstorms. Most of the rain is expected in the northern portion of the Kawartha Conservation jurisdiction.

Currently, flows and water levels, across Kawartha Conservation watersheds continue to be elevated due to the precipitation we have received throughout April. The forecasted rainfall for this weekend and next week will result in higher water levels and faster flows in creeks, rivers, and streams, and could cause increased potential for water pooling on roads and low-lying areas with poor drainage. The forecast also calls for thunderstorms which may result in flash flooding in localized areas. All lakes in the Kawartha Conservation jurisdiction are within normal range and no flooding is anticipated along their shorelines.

All watercourses have the potential to be dangerous during extensive rain. Riverbanks are saturated and slippery and areas with moving water may be unsafe. Therefore, Kawartha Conservation is warning all residents to stay a safe distance from all streams and rivers, as well as water structures such as bridges, culverts, and dams. Children should be warned of the dangerous conditions and supervised while outside.

Northern tributaries, such as the Burnt River and Gull River are monitored by staff from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF). Residents along these two rivers are requested to direct any questions concerning water levels to the MNRF Minden Area office at 705-286-5207 or refer to the messages issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) .