Flood statement issued for much of Northumberland County

Photo of Colborne Creek. Northumberland 89.7 file photo.

By Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 News, Local Journalism Initiative.

The Lower Trent Conservation has issued a flood outlook statement for much of Northumberland County.

The statement issued Saturday and valid through Thursday said nuanced flooding may occur.

“A series of low-pressure systems are forecasted to traverse through the watershed over the next several days. Air temperatures are expected to be well above normal into the high single digits and total rainfall amounts of 25-45mm are forecasted,” the statement read.

“Water levels and flows along our local creeks and streams are average for this time of year. The forecasted rainfall and active snowmelt on potentially frozen or saturated soils will result in runoff causing higher than normal flows and water levels in all watercourses within the Lower Trent Conservation watershed.”

The statement is for Grafton, east to Quinte West and Lake Ontario to Rice Lake.

“While the potential dangers presented by rivers, small streams and open ditches never cease to exist, they are of particular concern during these conditions. Water currents could be strong and temperatures are still cold. Additionally, river ice may start to break up and flow downstream. Minor ice jams are possible under these conditions; however, the volume of ice formed at this point in the season should not lead to significant ice jam concerns. Parents and caregivers are advised to keep children and pets away from all waterways. Areas around dams, culverts and bridges should be avoided at all times.”