Conditions are within normal limits and no flooding is expected.
The rivers and creeks in southern Ontario follow a typical seasonal flow pattern. During the winter, there are often brief periods of warmer temperatures. This can cause snow and ice to melt, increasing water levels and causing flooding. Rain that falls on snow or frozen ground can cause severe and widespread flooding. Melting snow and lots of rain in the spring may also cause high water levels and flooding. During the summer, localized thunderstorms are usually the cause of flooding. In the fall, intense rain from large storms is common and can also cause flooding. Remember that high water levels and flows can occur anytime of the year, so stay aware and stay safe.
Flooding can affect development near lakes, rivers, creeks, and streams. Floods are the most common and costly type of natural disaster. Removing vegetation, altering shorelines, and increasing paved areas can cause more severe flooding. Climate change can also cause extreme weather events, resulting in flooding more often.
Otonabee Conservation reduces the potential for damage and loss from flooding by:
Flood Forecasting and Warning
Our flood forecasting and warning program protects life and property from flooding. To do this, staff review available data and complete a flood risk analysis each day. If flooding is possible or expected, we issue a flood message. This information helps residents and municipalities get prepared. You can view current and past flood messages on our website and social media platforms.
We issue different types of flood messages, depending on forecasted conditions:
Conditions are within normal limits and no flooding is expected.
Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety
High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice, or other factors could be dangerous. Flooding is not expected. Recreational users such as anglers, paddlers, hikers, and children should use caution.
Watershed Condition Statement - Flood Outlook
Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecast. Heavy rain, snow melt, or high winds could lead to increased runoff, ice jams, flooding, or erosion.
Issued when flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services, and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
Issued when flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take actions which may include road closures and evacuations.
Preparing for Flooding
If you experience a flood emergency, dial 911 immediately!
To learn more about how you can be prepared for flooding, check out the following resources.
Monitoring Water Levels, Flow, Precipitation and Climate
Our monitoring network collects information about precipitation, water levels, and water flow. We also gather information climate information including air temperature, soil temperature, and soil moisture. We use this data for our Flood Forecasting and Warning and Low Water Response Programs. Use our interactive map to view precipitation and water levels.
Our monitoring network includes:
We also have access to other monitoring networks in our watershed region including:
Contact Us
250 Milroy Drive
Peterborough, ON K9H 7M9
Voice: 705-745-5791
Fax: 705-745-7488
Email: otonabeeca@otonabeeconservation.com
This FLOOD WATCH is issued for all watercourses within the jurisdiction of Otonabee Conservation, except the Trent-Severn Waterway. During the Labour Day weekend, rainfall and moderate to strong thunderstorms could bring flood-inducing heavy downpours to the region.
This WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY is issued because of widespread rainfall events that may cause increased flow and water levels that can be dangerous, but flooding is not expected.
Rain is expected to start this afternoon, Thursday, August 8, 2024, and total rainfall over the next 48-hours is expected to be 40-50 mm, including periods of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms due to remnants of Tropical Storm Debby interacting with a low-pressure system. Rainfall amounts may be higher (50-100mm) if the storm follows a more northerly path and showers are forecast to continue from Saturday through Monday.
Due to the potential for heavy rainfall, all watercourses within Otonabee Conservation jurisdiction may experience higher than normal water levels and flows.
Residents of flood prone areas and shorelines are advised to stay be prepared for potential flooding and stay aware of local weather conditions and alerts over the next 48 hours. Recreational water users are urged to remain cautious because high water levels and flows will continue through the weekend.
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