The Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority advises that approximately 30 to 35mm of rain has fallen on local watersheds since last night. The heavy rainfall, combined with melting ice pellets and saturated ground conditions is causing high volumes of runoff. The river and local creeks are currently rising due to the runoff and will likely reach bankfull and some may start spilling onto low-lying flood plains in the near future.
Minor and nuisance flooding can be expected especially in normally flood prone areas and where flows become blocked by ice or debris. Cold, fast flowing water and slippery conditions around water bodies can be very hazardous. Residents are reminded to use extreme caution and to keep children away from all watercourses, including ditches and culverts.
While no shoreline flooding is expected at this time, water levels will be on the rise over the next few days for Rice Lake and Lake Ontario as a result of the high volume of runoff making its way from the surrounding watersheds.
This Flood Watch for the local watersheds within the Ganaraska region will be in effect through Wednesday, April 18th, 2018. Conservation Authority staff will continue to monitor conditions, and provide updates as necessary. Should you have any questions or wish to report flooding, please contact the following GRCA staff at 905-885-8173.
