FLOOD WARNING: Saint Lawrence River – Update #1
Weather Forecast: Rainfall of 10 to 25 mm is possible Saturday, May 25, 2019. A strong wind warning is in effect as current forecasts suggests winds will continue to have a noticeable impact on water levels.
Environmental Conditions: Lake Ontario’s levels have been rising at a slower rate this week due to lower amounts of precipitation, allowing for Lake Ontario outflows to be increased substantially as Ottawa River flows declined.
Levels are already at critical values in some areas. Flooding and other high-water impacts continue to be reported around the upper Saint Lawrence River during periods of active weather.
Risks: The latest forecast from the International Lake Ontario – St. Lawrence River Board suggests that Lake Ontario is expected to reach its seasonal peak within the next 1 to 2 weeks. Peak levels are expected to be slightly above the highs of 2017.
Lake Ontario’s increased outflows may increase St. Lawrence River levels upstream of Iroquois throughout Edwardsburg/Cardinal and Augusta Township.
Residents are advised that wind may cause large waves, further aggravating water levels which may affect structures close to shore.
ACTION: Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely monitor conditions and take necessary actions. Sandbags are available to residents in flood prone areas.
Residents are advised to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable. Parents are encouraged to explain dangers to children.
Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas historically susceptible to flooding are encouraged to closely follow evolving conditions and take necessary precautions to protect their property.
Duration: This Flood Warning statement is in effect until Thursday, May 30, 2019 at 5:00 PM.
SNC monitors the water levels and weather forecasts as part of the Flood Forecasting and Warning Program. Updates are provided as conditions change.
The International Lake Ontario – St. Lawrence River Board continues to monitor conditions on an ongoing basis. Information on hydrologic conditions, water levels and outflows, including graphics and photos, are available on the Board’s website at www.ijc.org/en/loslrb.
Please visit www.nation.on.ca for more information. To provide feedback with respect to changes in water related conditions please email waterwatch@nation.on.ca, post on our Facebook (/SouthNationConservation) or Twitter (@SouthNationCA).
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Jason Symington, SNC Environmental Technician, 613-551-9057, jsymington@nation.on.ca.
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES: John Mesman, Team Lead, Communications, 613-899-5341, jmesman@nation.on.ca.
Forwarded to: All Flood Forecasting and Warning Directory
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