MVCA issues watershed conditions statement, urges water safety

The Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) has issued a watershed conditions statemement due to the warm temperatures and rainfall this week.

Unseasonably mild temperatures are in the forecast with a high of nine degrees Celsius expected Thursday. Periods of rain began Wednesday and will continue into Thursday. Between 15-25 millimetres (mm) of rain is expected in the Maitland and Nine Mile River watersheds over the next 24 hours. Given the current snowpack, this will result in approximately 50-60 mm of run-off.

While significant flooding is not predicted at this time, levels in streams and rivers may reach or exceed bankfull conditions, resulting in some minor flooding in low-lying areas. Municipal officials should monitor low-lying and flood-prone roads.

As temperatures rise, river ice will begin to break up and move. This may cause ice jams to form.

The MVVCA reminds people that slippery and unstable streambanks and cold water temperatures will create hazardous conditions around all watercourses. Ice conditions will also become extremely dangerous as temperatures and river flows rise.

Temperatures are expected to drop sharply by Friday evening. This quick drop could result in the formation of frazil ice in the Port Albert area, potentially leading to flooding in that area.

The MVCA is monitoring watershed conditions and will provide an update, if warranted.

This message is in effect until 9 a.m., Monday Jan. 15.