Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety (Update – Event Message # 2)

Current forecasts are expecting a low-pressure system to move into the region from the American mid-west bringing rain and the potential for isolated thunderstorms. Rain is forecast to begin today and may be heavy at times with isolated pockets of thunderstorms producing up to 25 mm. Watercourses are expected to rise as a result of the combination of rain, saturated ground conditions and warm temperatures.

Due to the expected rise in water levels, the LPRCA is updating the Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety for all watercourses within its jurisdiction. Current conditions and the forecast rainfall are expected to result in minor flooding in low-lying areas and unsafe conditions around watercourses.

People are cautioned to stay away from ditches, watercourses, ponds and other water bodies as the combination of slippery banks, unstable ice and cold, fast-flowing water can be dangerous. Ice conditions on watercourses, ponds and reservoirs are expected to deteriorate and should be considered unsafe. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from all of these areas.

If it is safe to do so, landowners are also advised to make sure dams, culverts, and catch basins are free from debris and functioning properly.

With watercourse levels expected to remain elevated for several days, this message is in effect until noon, Friday, March 22, 2019. LPRCA staff will continue to monitor watershed conditions and will update this message as necessary.

Contact Paul Gagnon, Lands and Waters Supervisor 519-842-4242 ext. 232 should further information be required.