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Cataraqui Conservation has updated the current Flood Watch today due to elevated water levels and the forecast for additional rainfall.

Weather Situation:

36 – 47mm of precipitation fell in the Cataraqui region over the period of March 28 – 31, which is over half a month’s worth. Environment Canada has issued special weather statements for April 2 and 3, advising of 2 – 5 mm of freezing rain followed by significant rainfall. Total rainfall amounts of 20 – 40 mm with locally higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. Additional rain is forecast for April 5 and 6.

Conditions:

Streamflows have risen quickly from recent rainfall, with many gauged creeks at about 2.5 times normal levels. These flows are stabilizing, but largely will not have a chance to come back down before the forecasted rain.
Water managers have been aggressively managing outflows to prepare, as much as possible, for additional rainfall. Some managed lakes remain well above normal.
The ground has limited ability to absorb precipitation due to higher saturation following recent rainfall. This will lead to enhanced runoff to streams and lakes during rainfall events.

Risks:

The forecasted rain is expected to cause streamflows to rise, possibly exceeding levels observed March 17 – 18 following the March 15 & 16 snowmelt and rainfall event. Higher than normal peak spring flows and levels are possible, as well as localized impacts such as roadway inundation and the filling of floodplain areas.
Lake levels are also expected to rise. Water Managers have increased discharge (to maximum capacity from some water control structures) and continue to monitor levels closely to limit, as much as possible, negative impacts.
Widespread flooding is NOT expected. However, flooding of low-lying areas IS expected.

Residents in flood-prone or low-lying areas, historically susceptible to flooding, are advised to remove items stored in the floodplains of area watercourses and lakes.

If you witness flooding and/or require assistance, your first point of contact is the local municipality.
Cataraqui Conservation is urging caution around all dams (inflow and outflow channels) and fast-flowing watercourses. Respect the hazards in these areas by obeying all warning signs, and keep away from booms, buoys and barriers. Stay well back from the water’s edge above and below dams and hydroelectric stations. Creek banks and lake shorelines may be slippery, increasing the chance of falling in.

Staff will continue to monitor conditions and forecasts, and update statements as needed. This Flood Watch will remain in effect until (or updated before) Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 11:59 PM.

For up-to-date flooding information, please visit our flood forecasting and information page.