A flood watch statement is in effect for the Trent River until next Thursday, Jan. 23.
Lower Trent Conservation (LTC) issued the statement Wednesday, Jan. 15, saying during this time, high water levels, unsafe banks and/or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users and waterfront landowners.
This is also means there is potential for nuisance or minor flooding in low-lying areas, access roads, backyards, basements, et cetera. However, buildings and people aren’t at risk.
“A slow-moving low-pressure system will bring light snowfall and warmer air temperatures for Wednesday through Saturday followed by an arctic air mass, which is forecasted to bring extremely low air temperatures into the region on Saturday night,” explained Lower Trent officials. “Air temperatures are expected to be in the minus 20s for Sunday and into next week.”
And while reduced water levels and warmer air temperatures have diminished the effects of frazil ice and reduced the flooding conditions in the area over the past few days, the forecasted cold air temperatures through next week brings the potential for frazil ice generation that may result in ice jamming and possible flooding, reads LTC’s statement.
“Frazil ice is an ice formation that occurs when there is a lack of ice cover and exposure of the water surface to cold temperatures and/or wind chills below -18 degrees Celsius. These conditions trigger the formation of frazil ice, which can accumulate quickly on bridge abutments, piers and riverbanks and block the flow of water.”
Residents living along any flowing water bodies should pay careful attention to water levels as the accumulation of frazil ice may result in frazil ice jamming and “rapid unpredictable increases in water levels.”
Fluctuating water levels are also expected to occur during these cold weather conditions.
Residents should ensure their sump pumps are working and secure personal property (such as boats, docks, et cetera,) along riverbanks.
“These extreme cold temperatures will cause flood waters to freeze and cause dangerous conditions.”
While the potential dangers presented by rivers, small streams and open ditches never cease to exist, Lower Trent staff noted they are of particular concern during these conditions.
In addition to cold temperatures and potential strong currents, sheet ice cover that has formed on waterways should be considered unsafe, echoed officials.
Parents and caregivers should keep children and pets away from all waterways. Areas around dams, culverts and bridges should be avoided at all times, added staff.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)