Lower Trent Conservation Watershed Safety Concerns

Trent Hills - Thurs., Dec. 22, 2022 - A very intense, slow-moving Colorado low will enter Ontario today, impacting the entire province. The system is expected to bring up to 20 mm of rain and rain/snow showers on Thursday and early Friday before transitioning to snow for the rest of the weekend.

A strong cold front will sweep through the province on Friday, bringing strong to damaging southwesterly winds. Sustained winds of 40-50 km/hr can be expected. Gusts to up 90 km/h, reaching as high as 110 km/h, are possible. Intense winds are expected to continue through Saturday becoming lighter on Sunday, as the system makes its way through the province.

Forecast winds across the Great Lakes will result in increased water levels due to storm surge and wave heights that can potentially exceed local flood thresholds. Shoreline areas of the east end of Lake Ontario are expected to be the most impacted with wave heights in the range of 1.5-2.0 metres. Water levels and waves will subside gradually, starting Saturday afternoon but will stay elevated throughout the weekend as the wind continues to stay strong.

These lake conditions could make a substantial impact on the shorelines with shoreline flooding, wave uprush, and increased erosion potentially expected. A close watch on local shoreline conditions, especially historically known vulnerable locations, is recommended. The public should be reminded about the hazard posed by the high waves and strong wind.

Lower Trent Conservation monitors water levels and weather forecasts closely as part of its flood forecasting and warning program. Daily water level updates are available at www.LTC.on.ca. If you have concerns about water levels, please contact Lower Trent Conservation at (613) 394-4829.

This Watershed Safety Statement will be in effect until (or updated before) Monday, December 26, 2022.

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