News Release
For immediate release
St. Thomas –While spring brings with it longer days and warmer weather, it also brings a mixture of precipitation along with melting snow and ice that can make rivers and lakes even more dangerous than normal. Kettle Creek Conservation Authority is issuing a Watershed Conditions Statement—Water Safety reminding residents to take extra caution near creeks and streams during March Break.
Environment Canada is forecasting warmer temperatures next week with the occasional shower or flurry. Fortunately, the thaw the region experienced in February has lessened the chances of serious flooding this spring.
“Spring weather can be unpredictable, which 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. “Water and ice are always an attraction to children,” says Dow. “Banks can be very slippery, and the water can be fast flowing and very cold.”
Often March Break is the first taste of spring for children—making waterways that much more attractive. Parents and guardians are urged to keep children off any remaining ice and away from the water. Ice conditions on frozen water bodies are unsafe. “Ice can be tricky—it can be thick and strong in one spot, while thin and weak in another and conditions change daily, sometimes hourly,“ warns Dow. “Plan for a safe March Break.”
A high-water event is not anticipated over the March Break at this time, however, updates will be made available if conditions warrant. This Watershed Conditions Statement—Water Safety will remain in effect until Monday, March 21. 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