This Flood Message is no longer active.
Message # 2022-03 Issued: 3:45 p.m., Monday, February 21, 2022
Subject: FLOOD WATCH UPDATE issued for all waterbodies and watercourses in the Region
Issued to: Municipalities of Selwyn, Douro-Dummer, Asphodel-Norwood, Otonabee-South Monaghan, Cavan Monaghan, City of Kawartha Lakes, City of Peterborough and Trent Hills, and ORCA’s other partners in flood emergency management.
This FLOOD WATCH UPDATE is issued to alert municipalities, residents, and businesses that floods are possible.
After experiencing a low-pressure trough that brought warm air temperatures, rain, and snowmelt to the Region last week, we will experience similar weather conditions on Tuesday, February 22, as a Texas Low Pressure system passes over Southern Ontario. Air temperatures will soar to 6 degrees Celsius, and the system will deliver 20-25 millimetres of rain, possibly heavy at times.
Rain on snow on frozen ground will cause already above-normal water levels/flows to increase even more, possibly resulting in overbank flooding. However, if water levels do rise enough as to exceed channel capacity, it is expected to only do so in low-lying areas and to cause only nuisance level flooding. Ice cover break-up is not expected, and flooding due to ice jams is also not expected. Wednesday, February 23, will see the system gone from the Region and a return to seasonal air temperatures.
Area residents can expect ponding of water in low-lying areas because frozen ground conditions will prevent absorption, followed by the freezing of this water as the air temperatures change back to below zero. Also, ponding will occur around culverts and drainage basins that are blocked due to snow, ice and/or debris. Residents and businesses along the shores of area waterbodies and watercourses, especially those located in low-lying areas, are strongly encouraged to keep a close watch for possible flooding and to take action to limit or prevent damages due to potential flooding. Adults, parents, and caregivers are advised to keep themselves, children, and pets away from all waterways and conveyance structures (i.e., dams, culverts, and bridges).
Water levels can be monitored on-line at:
- Trent-Severn Waterway’s Water Management InfoNet
- Water Survey of Canada Real-Time Hydrometric Data
- Otonabee Region Conservation Authority website
This FLOOD WATCH UPDATE message will expire THURSDAY, February 24, 2022, unless up-dated earlier.
For more information:
Gord Earle | Flood Forecasting & Warning Duty Officer | 705-745-5791 x 214
250 Milroy Drive, Peterborough, ON K9H 7M9
orcafloodduty@otonabeeconservation.com | Flood Watch Hotline 705-745-5791 x 228