Significant rain in Northumberland could bring high water levels

Photo by Lucas Hron. Free Use Domain. Unsplash

By Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter.

Northumberland County is expected to experience significant rain over the next 72 hours. 35-55 mm of rain is forecasted as a low pressure system has moved into the region, The Lower Trent Conservation has issued a water safety alert for eastern Northumberland and Rice Lake. 

“It is important to note that during this time high water levels, unsafe banks or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users and waterfront landowners. Although flooding is not expected, localized inundation of low-lying and poorly drained areas may be possible,” the alert said. 

“The forecasted rainfall will result in higher-than-normal water levels and flows along the smaller creeks and streams in the region, which can respond quickly to intense periods of rainfall, rising quickly.”  

Municipalities and the public should be aware that localized inundation is possible in urban areas where storm drains may not be able to handle the intense rainfall associated with summer storms. Local waterways from Grafton to Quintie West and Rice Lake to Central Hastings could be impacted.