Residents across Northumberland County and the Quinte region are being urged to stay cautious around local waterways as warmer temperatures and rainfall accelerate spring snowmelt.
Lower Trent Conservation has issued a Watershed Conditions Statement for Water Safety covering the Lower Trent watershed, which stretches from Grafton to Quinte West and from Lake Ontario north to Rice Lake and east to Centre Hastings.
At the same time, the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority is reminding residents to check that sump pumps are working and to ensure gutters and driveway culverts are clear to allow water to drain properly.
Officials say daytime temperatures could reach 13 degrees over the coming week, while 20 to 30 millimetres of rain is expected through Saturday. Combined with a dense remaining snowpack, those conditions may accelerate snowmelt and increase runoff into local creeks and streams.
Water levels in many waterways are currently around seasonal averages, but conservation officials say higher flows and stronger currents are expected as snowmelt continues.
While flooding is not anticipated at this time, localized ponding may occur in low lying areas or urban locations where storm drains are unable to handle the combined runoff.
Officials warn that waterways can be especially dangerous during the spring thaw. Fast moving currents and near freezing water temperatures create significant safety risks.
Parents and caregivers are being reminded to keep children and pets away from rivers, creeks and drainage channels, and to avoid areas near bridges, culverts and dams.
Lower Trent Conservation says it will continue monitoring conditions as part of its flood forecasting and warning program.
The water safety statement is expected to remain in effect until March 13 at 4 p.m..
(Written by: Joseph Goden)