WATERSHED CONDITIONS – WATER SAFETY STATEMENT
South Nation Conservation is revising the Watershed Conditions issued from March 18th, from Flood Outlook to a Water Safety Statement. Watercourses are expected to remain stable or increase slightly over the next few days due to fluctuating temperatures and mixed precipitation.
Environment Canada is forecasting approximately 10 cm of snow and freezing rain over the next few days, with temperatures ranging between 0oC and -5oC until March 25th. Environment Canada forecasts Saturday and Sunday to be a mix of sun and cloud with temperatures around 8oC.
At present, stream flows are normal to below normal levels. Any increase in water levels due to the forecasted precipitation is not a concern at this time; however, nuisance flooding in low-lying areas may be observed.
The Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board is forecasting water levels and flows in the southern section, of the main stem of the Ottawa River, to remain fairly stable or decrease over the coming week. Since last Friday, water levels have dropped considerably from Gatineau, Quebec, to Grenville, Quebec, due to the break-up of ice cover.
Residents are advised to stay away from watercourses as flows are still higher than normal. Slippery river banks and weakened ice cover in some areas are also a concern. Parents are encouraged to explain these dangers to their children.
SNC staff will continue to monitor the water levels and weather forecasts as part of the Flood Forecasting and Warning Program and will provide updates in the event conditions change.
SNC encourages the public to visit www.nation.on.ca and to also provide feedback with respect to changes in water related conditions in their local areas. All feedback can be sent to waterwatch@nation.on.ca; posted on our Facebook (/SouthNationConservation), or Tweet us your photos (@SouthNationCA).
For more information, please contact Golam Sharif at 1-877-984-2948 ext. 373 or Sandra Mancini at ext. 223
This statement is in effect until Tuesday, March 29, 2016.