April 11, 2018 – A weather system out of the mid-west U.S. has the potential to bring several forms of precipitation in significant amounts in to eastern Canada over the next week.

Snow, rain and freezing rain may fall beginning tonight with showers or flurries. Tomorrow, rain is forecast to fall through the afternoon. Rain is expected to begin again late on Friday morning and continue into Saturday, changing to snow in the early morning finishing with as much as 20 centimetres. Rain is presently expected to resume on Sunday and continue into Monday.

If the full amount of forecast precipitation falls, there is the potential for minor flooding to occur in the Long Reach of the Rideau near Kemptville. The lower lying communities in that area may have access issues.

Water levels throughout the watershed are below average for the time of year so there is capacity to accommodate some of the runoff with little impact. Cooler than normal temperatures are forecast which could mean that the runoff process will be slowed to an extent with freezing temperatures overnight. Temperatures closer to spring-like are not expected until the end of next week.

This weather system has the potential to develop into a more significant event over the next five days. RVCA staff will continue to monitor and further statements will be issued if conditions warrant.

Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) reminds the public to exercise extreme caution around all water bodies. Streambanks are slippery and any remaining ice cover on streams, ponds and lakes will be hazardous. Parents are advised to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses as levels fluctuate with the spring weather.