(WCS – R11/2023)
May 9, 2023 – A FLOOD WATCH is being maintained for properties around Bobs Lake and Christie Lake. Furthermore, a WATER SAFETY statement is being maintained for the entire Rideau Valley Watershed.
The water levels on Bobs and Christie Lakes remain high and are above average for this time of year due to the recent significant rain event. The current forecast indicates little rain for the next 5 days which is favourable for water level decreases, however another large rainfall could cause water levels to increase again. Parks Canada staff are closely monitoring the water levels in these lakes. Operations at the Bolingbroke Dam will take place as required to balance the levels in Bobs Lake and Christie Lake.
Water levels and flows in the rest of the Rideau Valley Watershed are generally above average for this time of year due to the recent significant rain event, but are declining.
The RVCA reminds the public to exercise extreme caution around all waterbodies and dam structures and remind children about the dangers of playing near open water. MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE ADVISED TO NOT USE THE RIDEAU RIVER FOR RECREATIONAL PURPOSES UNTIL WATER LEVELS RECEDE TO SAFER LEVELS.
This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Tuesday May 23, 2023 at 5 PM and will be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.
-end-
More Information:
Contact: Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141
www.rvca.ca/watershed-conditions
"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed
created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and
natural resource conservation."
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.
