The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority advises that the Surface Water Monitoring Centre has issued a provincial watershed conditions statement for southern Ontario. The system will bring above-freezing air temperatures, reaching 7 to 10 degrees Celsius on Friday, March 17. Total precipitation accumulation amounts for the duration of this storm are forecast to reach 20-30 mm, with the bulk of the rain occurring on Friday.
While widespread flooding is not expected, the possibility for flooding in various low-lying areas of the watershed exists due to the expected rainfall and melting of the snowpack. There is also the potential for ice breakup in some areas as a result of the increased flows. Ice jams may be possible in some of the watercourses.
All watercourses in our area may experience higher than normal water levels and flows. As a result, local streams and rivers may become dangerous, especially in the vicinity of culverts and bridges. Children should be warned to stay away from all watercourses.
This watershed conditions statement will be in effect through Sunday, March 19, 2023.
For further information, contact Alison Edwards at 905-895-1281.