News release
For immediate release
St. Thomas – Kettle Creek Conservation Authority is issuing a Watershed Conditions Statement—Water Safety and reminding residents to take extra caution near creeks and streams this weekend. Current forecasts predict warmer temperatures in the double digits combined with 5mm of rain before a return to below freezing temperatures early Monday morning. Higher daytime temperatures and forecast precipitation will melt the remaining snowpack. Snowmelt, precipitation and frozen ground conditions may result in higher than normal water levels and flows.
“While it seems like winter still has a hold on Southern Ontario, it looks like we will get a break this weekend. Unfortunately spring also brings melting ice and mixed precipitation. This can make rivers and lakes more dangerous than normal as conditions can change quickly,” says Jennifer Dow, water conservation supervisor for Kettle Creek Conservation Authority.
Kettle Creek Conservation Authority is reminding parents to use extreme care around all watercourses, flood plain areas and ponds. “The ice cover is unstable, banks can be very slippery and the water is fast flowing and very cold,” warns Dow.
Residents along Kettle Creek are advised to monitor their local conditions. It is also recommended to remove property from low-lying areas and to clear snow and ice from storm drains.
A high-water event is not anticipated this weekend; however, updates will be made available if conditions warrant. This watershed conditions statement—water safety will remain in effect until Monday, March 17. For further updates log on to www.kettlecreekconservation.on.ca or connect with Kettle Creek Conservation Authority socially on Twitter @KettleCreekCA or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/KettleCreekCa .
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Jennifer Dow
Water Conservation Supervisor
519-631-1270 x228
The Kettle Creek Conservation Authority issues three levels of messages:
- Watershed Conditions Statement: a general notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding. There are two variations of these:
- Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected
- Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.
- Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
- Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take action to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations