Lower Trent Conservation advises municipalities and the public, that the Flood Watch issued on April 26, 2019 for the Lake Ontario and Bay of Quinte shoreline from Grafton to Quinte West has been upgraded to a Flood Warning.
A significant storm system is occurring across most of southern Ontario today. Heavy rainfall is expected with 20- 30 mm of rain forecasted along the Lake Ontario basin. Water levels on Lake Ontario are expected to rapidly increase this week and onwards in response to significant precipitation throughout the Lake Ontario basin, high inflows from Lake Erie, and spring freshet flows from local watercourses. Lake Ontario outflows were reduced due to the flooding situation in the Ottawa River and downstream impacts along the St. Lawrence River; however, Lake Ontario outflows have been increasing as the conditions in the Ottawa River improve.
Lake Ontario water levels have risen 15 cm since the beginning of May. The water level measured at Cobourg is currently at 75.54 masl (metres above sea level) which is 16 cm below the Lake Ontario 100-year flood elevation of 75.70 masl. Forecasts by the International Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River Board (ILOSLRB) are indicating that the water levels in Lake Ontario are expected to rise just above 100-year flood level if average precipitation occurs in the month of May. Wetter conditions could lead to higher water levels.
Residents living in low lying, flood prone shoreline areas should anticipate further water level increases through May, and possibly into June if wet weather persists. Additionally, surge related flooding and erosion damages from high waves is possible during periods of strong onshore winds. Residents should pay close attention to weather forecasts for approaching storm systems with high southeast, south or southwest winds.
Property owners are also reminded that any work along the shoreline (e.g. placement of fill, armour stone, etc.) will require a permit from Lower Trent Conservation and should call the office or visit the website (www.ltc.on.ca) for more information.
Residents living in low-lying, flood prone areas should take actions to protect themselves and their property. Homeowners affected by flooding should also be aware that electrical, well and septic issues may exist. The public should pay attention to Health Unit guidelines for ensuring safe drinking water.
If safe to do so, the public is encouraged to share photos of water concerns in their area via Facebook (@lowertrentconservation) or Twitter (@LowerTrent).
The public is advised to exercise extreme caution around all waterways. Strong currents pose a safety hazard to anyone. Areas around water control structures should be avoided at all times.
Lower Trent Conservation monitors water levels and weather forecasts as part of its flood forecasting and warning program. If you have concerns about water levels, please contact Lower Trent Conservation at (613) 394-4829.
An update to this Flood Warning for Lake Ontario/Bay of Quite will be provided on or before Friday, May 24, 2019. Additional statements will be issued if conditions are expected to change significantly from this outlook.
(Press Release From Lower Trent Conservation)
