Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety issued December 28 to December 31, 2024

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WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – December 28, 2024 – December 31, 2024 

Based on information received from Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ministry of Natural Resources - Surface Water Monitoring Centre and Kawartha Conservation is issuing a Watershed Conditions Statement starting Saturday, December 28, 2024, and remaining in effect until the end of day Tuesday, December 31, 2024. 

A series of low-pressure systems are passing through Southern Ontario in the coming days, forecasting an unstable, warm, and moist weather pattern bringing a combination of mixed precipitation.  During this period the Kawartha watershed is expected to receive 20-35 mm of mixed precipitation.  In addition, the above-seasonal temperatures over the weekend and early next week are likely leading to significant melting of the existing snowpack. These conditions could result in rising water levels and increased flow rates. While widespread flooding is not anticipated, localized water pooling in low-lying areas is possible, and slippery or unstable banks near watercourses pose a safety hazard. 

Riverbanks may be slippery, and areas with moving water could pose safety risks. Kawartha Conservation urges all residents to maintain a safe distance from streams, rivers, and water-related structures such as bridges, culverts, and dams. It is essential to caution children about these hazardous conditions and ensure they are supervised while outdoors. 

Northern tributaries, such as the Burnt River and Gull River are monitored by staff from the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). Residents along these two rivers are requested to direct any questions concerning water levels to the Minden Area office at 705-286-1521 or refer to the messages issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). 

Additional information from the TSW is available at the Water Management InfoNet web page. 

This Watershed Condition Statement – Water Safety will be in effect through the end of Tuesday, December 31, 2024.   

Kawartha Conservation will continue monitoring local watercourses and notify the public and municipalities within its watershed jurisdiction of any changes. We are in close communication with partner agencies such as the Trent Severn Waterway, Ministry of Natural Resources, and neighbouring Conservation Authorities during all flood situations. 

If you are aware of or have concerns about flooding, please contact Kawartha Conservation at 705.328.2271 or 705.344.0155 after hours.