Rideau Valley Conservation Authority - Mild Temperatures and Rain May Increase Water Levels

Mild Temperatures and Rain on Sunday May Increase Water Levels and Flows and Cause Unstable Ice Across Watershed

March 4, 2022

Environment Canada is forecasting temperatures above 10 degrees Celcius and rain on Sunday. This weather event will likely result in elevated water runoff to all waterways because of snow melt and rainfall.

Although no significant flooding is anticipated, water levels and flows are expected to increase in all waterways in the Rideau Valley Watershed. Depending on how much snow melts and rain falls, residents who are adjacent to the smaller creeks and streams are advised to keep a close watch on water levels and flows and should take the necessary precautions to protect their property, such as:

•             Ensuring sump pump is clear, in good working condition and has a backwater valve

•             Ensuring easy access to a portable backup generator and pump

With the expected temperature changes and increase in water levels and flows in the coming days, ice cover on lakes, ditches, local streams and rivers will be unstable. Extreme caution should be exercised by everyone when near local waterbodies. Parents should inform their children of the risks and provide appropriate supervision.

This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Tuesday March 8, 2022 at 5 PM or until an update has been issued.