Maitland Valley Conservation Authority Flood Outlook/Water Safety - March 22, 2023
Back to SearchWatershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety
Maitland Conservation is issuing a Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety for all municipalities in the Maitland and Nine Mile River watersheds.
A low-pressure system will track through the Great Lakes region today (March 22nd), bringing 15-20mm of rain to the Maitland and Nine Mile River watersheds. Light showers are forecasted to develop this afternoon and continue overnight through tomorrow (March 23rd). Mild temperatures are also expected to continue today and remain above 0°C overnight. These conditions will accelerate snowmelt and runoff to watercourses.
As of Tuesday March 21st, Maitland Conservation staff measured 30-70 mm of water content remaining in the snowpack, with lesser amounts in open fields and the higher range limited to woodlot areas. Soil moisture remains near saturated from last week’s rain and snowmelt. Resulting runoff is expected to remain steady over the next 24 hours and be accompanied by a steady rise in rivers and streams throughout the watershed.
Water levels will likely surpass what was experienced from thaw events earlier this year, although significant flooding is not anticipated at this time. Watercourses can be expected to approach or slightly exceed bankfull conditions resulting in ponding and minor flooding in typical low-lying areas. Smaller streams in headwater areas are forecasted to peak by Friday, with larger rivers following early next week.
Municipal officials are encouraged to check drainage systems and monitor low-lying and flood prone roads. Residents are reminded to use caution near all watercourses. Slippery and unstable streambanks, and cold and fast-flowing water will create hazardous conditions.
Rain and snow remain in the long-range weather forecast, which has the potential to prolong or worsen these watershed conditions. Maitland Conservation will provide an update if warranted.
This message is in effect until the afternoon of Tuesday March 28, 2023.
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Contact:
Jeff Winzenried, Flood Forecasting Supervisor
519-357-0890
Media Contact:
Jayne Thompson, Communications Coordinator
519-335-3557 ext. 226 Cell: 519-357-6670
Types of Flood Messages:
Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety - General watershed conditions are being assessed for high runoff potential that could lead to flooding, and to remind the public of general river safety issues.
Watershed Conditions Statement - Flood Outlook - Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.
Flood Watch - Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
Flood Warning - Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take action to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.
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