Rain and Saturated Ground Conditions May Cause Flooding in Low-Lying Areas
The Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety issued on Dec. 30, 2022, is being extended for all municipalities in the Maitland and Nine Mile River watersheds.
A Colorado Low will track through the Great Lakes region and is forecast to bring rain to southern Ontario through Wednesday. Scattered showers are expected to develop later today (Tuesday, January 3 2023), followed by steady light rain beginning Wednesday afternoon. A total rainfall accumulation of 20-30 mm is predicted for the Maitland watershed. Saturated ground conditions remain from the rain and snowmelt this past weekend, therefore rivers and streams will respond quickly to additional runoff.
Streams and rivers are expected to reach similar levels experienced this past weekend when many watercourses approached or slightly exceeded bankfull. Minor flooding in typical low-lying areas is again likely. These elevated flow conditions will continue into the weekend. Significant flooding is not anticipated at this time.
Municipal officials are again encouraged to check drainage systems and monitor low-lying and flood prone roads. 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 Sunday January 8, 2023.
Contact:
Jeff Winzenried, Flood Forecasting Supervisor
jwinzenried@mvca.on.ca
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.