Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety

Maitland Conservation is issuing a Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety for all municipalities in the Maitland and Nine Mile River watersheds.

The water content in the snowpack currently ranges from 20 mm in the southern region of the watershed to upwards of 40 mm towards the north. Rainfall of 10-20 mm combined with mild temperatures (at or above the freezing mark until Sunday night) will result in a significant reduction of the snowpack. The ground remains fairly saturated in parts of the watershed, which may result in quick runoff into watercourses. Levels in headwater areas will likely peak Saturday night, while the lower Maitland River is expected to peak late Sunday into Monday morning. Flows will remain above average for several days.

Although significant ice has yet to form, there is some potential for ice jams. River levels can rise and fall quickly due to localized ice jams.

While significant flooding is not expected at this time, levels in streams and rivers may reach or exceed bankfull conditions resulting in some minor flooding in low-lying areas. Municipal officials should monitor low-lying and flood prone roads. If more precipitation materializes as snow rather than rain, lower runoff and associated river levels can be expected.

We remind people that slippery and unstable streambanks and cold water temperatures will create hazardous conditions around all watercourses.

Maitland Conservation is monitoring watershed conditions and will provide an update if warranted.

This message is in effect until the afternoon of Tuesday January 28, 2020.

 Contact:

Steve Jackson, Flood and Erosion Safety Services Coordinator
sjackson@mvca.on.ca
519-357-0890

Media Contact:
Jayne Thompson, Communications Coordinator
jthompson@mvca.on.ca
519-335-3557 ext. 226  Cell: 519-357-6670

Types of Flood Messages:

Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety – General watershed conditions are being assessed for high runoff potential that could lead to flooding, and to remind the public of general river safety issues.

Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion

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

Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take action to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.