Lower Trent Conservation has issued a flood warning for the Rice Lake and Trent River from Hastings to Trenton.
“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,” said Lower Trent, noting the flood warning statement serves as an update to a previously issued flood watch back on March 31, 2026.
“The Trent River system is in full spring freshet with the warming temperatures melting the snowpack in the larger Trent River watershed, which includes the Haliburton tributaries, reservoir lakes, the Kawartha Lakes and the Otonabee River,” said the conservation authority, adding there’s also still significant snowpack remaining in northern areas.
What’s more, officials said there’s forecasted rainfall of 25-30 millimetres expected Sunday, along with an additional five-day period of sustained rainfall accumulation of up to 60 mm and potential for thunderstorms to increase intensity on a localized scale.
“This will lead to significant melting of the remaining snowpack, which in turn, will increase flows and levels in the Trent River. Temperatures will also continue to increase above freezing, potentially melting the remaining snowpack found in the larger Trent River watershed, along with the forecasted rain,” explained officials.
Outflows from the Kawartha Lakes through the Otonabee River and into Rice Lake and down the Trent River are expected to increase over the next week as the melted snow and rain flows through the Trent River system. As well, flows into the Trent River from the Crowe River are currently elevated and trending upwards, noted Lower Trent.
High water levels can cause flooding of driveways, access roads, and buildings located in low-lying areas. Residents are again being encouraged to ensure sump pumps are working and to secure personal property along riverbanks.
Parents and caregivers are reminded to keep kids and pets away from all waterways, and areas around dams, culverts and bridges should be avoided at all times, reiterated officials.
During high flows, there is also potential for ice damage where accumulation is still present along the banks of the river.
The flood warning is in effect until Friday, April 17 at 4 p.m.
