Rideau Valley Conservation Authority - Watershed Conditions Statement (February 9, 2024)

Warm Temperatures to Cause Increased Water Levels Across Rideau Valley Watershed.

Caution is advised as above normal temperatures are forecasted for the Rideau Valley Watershed this weekend. Environment Canada’s short-term weather forecast indicates above-zero temperatures approaching 10 degrees Celsius on Friday and Saturday. On Sunday and Monday, the temperatures are forecast to approach 5 degrees Celsius before cooling off to more seasonal below-zero temperatures next week. Less than 5 mm of precipitation is expected on Friday and Saturday.

Water levels and flows are generally average for this time of year across the Rideau Valley Watershed. Although no significant flooding is anticipated, water levels and flows are expected to increase in all creeks and streams in the Rideau Valley Watershed in the coming days. Residents adjacent to 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.

The warm temperatures and increased water levels may destabilize existing ice cover, creating unstable conditions and the potential for ice jams.

Extreme caution should be exercised by everyone when near local waterbodies. Parents should inform their children of the risks and provide appropriate supervision. Pets should be leashed near all bodies of water.

This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Friday, February 16, 2024 at 5 PM or until an update has been issued.

More Information:
Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141
brian.stratton@rvca.ca

"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and natural resource conservation."

RVCA Watershed Conditions Statements:

• Water Safety – High flows, unstable 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.

• Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts, calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams and/or lakeshore flooding or erosion.

• Flood Watch – Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individuals in flood prone areas should prepare.

• Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.