To: Watershed News Media

Date: February 28, 2011

Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority issues watershed conditions bulletin

Kingston - The Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority (CRCA) cautions residents that water levels in local creeks and streams will rise in the next 48 hours due to warm temperatures and rain forecast through Monday afternoon. Rising water levels are not expected to approach flood conditions in any of the CRCA’s watercourses spanning from Napanee to Brockville and north to Newboro. The rising water levels are expected to weaken ice cover on all lakes and creeks.

Loose ice in local waterways has the potential for obstructing creeks and streams, especially near culverts. These blockages may cause localized flooding upstream of culverts.

With rising water levels, ice may be weaker than it appears. Shorelines will be slippery and flow in local watercourses will be fast and cold. Caution should be exercised near all creeks, rivers,
and lakes.

This bulletin is based on Environment Canada predictions of rainfall and the CRCA’s monitoring of snow cover, flows in creeks and rivers, and lake levels. The CRCA continues to monitor stream flows and watershed conditions as part of its flood forecasting and warning mandate.

For more information call:
Peter Hebert, Water Resources Technician 613 546-4228, ext. 284
Toll-free 1-877-956-CRCA, ext. 284

Newsrooms please note:
A watershed conditions bulletin is NOT a flood warning. Its purpose is to raise public awareness about a change or potential change in watershed conditions. A watershed conditions bulletin may suggest unsafe water, ice or bank conditions that may pose potential safety issues on local waterways.

A flood advisory is issued when there is potential for flooding to occur in low-lying areas. Municipal emergency response officials are notified that a potential for flooding exists.

A flood warning is issued when there is impending flooding. A flood warning requires action that may include the activation of the municipal emergency response plan, warning residents or businesses in specific affected areas, and in some cases, evacuation.