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February 23, 2016

Watershed Conditions Statement: Water Safety

A mix of precipitation forecast for tonight through to Thursday can be expected to cause some increase in levels in in all watercourses throughout the Rideau River Valley.

It is unclear what will be the predominant form of precipitation that will fall over the next two days. If it is mainly rain, much of that will be retained in the snowpack but some runoff can be expected to occur and water levels will increase on all watercourses.

Streamflows are presently slightly above normal for the time of year. Any increases in levels can be expected to cause only the lowest lying areas to be flooded. No residential or access road flooding is expected.

There has been some ice formation and that can be expected to become unstable as water levels and flows increase. Anyone who has to be in the vicinity of a waterbody will need to be cautious. In particular, parents should inform their children of the risks associated with increased flows and unstable ice conditions in area watercourses and provide appropriate supervision.

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

RVCA Watershed Conditions Statements:

Water Safety – High flows, unstable banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.

Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts, calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams and/or lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Flood Watch – Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individuals in flood prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.