April 3, 2018 – Rain in the order of 20 millimetres is forecast for today and into the night that will cause water levels throughout the Rideau valley to increase beyond levels reached after rain on Saturday.

How much levels increase will be limited by dropping temperatures and the changeover from rain to freezing rain or snow overnight and tomorrow. Peak flows from this weather are still expected to be less than average for the spring freshet. These may not be the actual freshet maximum flows.

The Long Reach of the Rideau River, between Manotick and Kemptville, could have levels over the banks as a result of the rain but access is not expected to become a problem in the small river side communities such as Hilly Lane and Cedar Beach.

Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) reminds the public to exercise extreme caution around all water bodies. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery at this time and, when combined with current weather conditions, pose a serious hazard. Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses and off frozen water bodies, which have been weakened as a result of the warming conditions.

 RVCA will continue to monitor conditions and will issue further statements when or if there is an indication that the situation can be expected to change significantly.