Media Release | Cataraqui Conservation - Changing Watershed Conditions

Kingston – Cataraqui Conservation is advising residents regarding the seasonal changes occurring in the region.

Weather Situation:
In the short-term, a brief warm-up is forecast for March 4 – 6, with temperatures possibly reaching 10°C, accompanied by 15 - 30 mm+ of rain, followed by several days with daytime highs at or below zero. Though subject to greater uncertainty, longer-term forecasts appear to suggest daytime highs consistently above zero starting March 10 or 11.

Conditions:
The upcoming warm-ups and rainfall represent the start of the spring freshet (snowmelt) period. The snowpack is currently about two times the normal depth and water equivalent. A melt of the snowpack is expected to begin in the coming days. Combined with rainfall and frozen ground conditions, the snowmelt will contribute to increased water levels and flows on inland lakes and streams in the coming weeks.
Water Managers will continue to make discharge adjustments to manage, as much as possible, any excess flows coming through the system from snowmelt and rainfall. Target water levels generally trend upward through March to prepare for the summer recreation season.

Risks:
The above average snowpack is one factor that could contribute to a heavier freshet this year. However, forecast uncertainty and other factors mean it is too early to predict the influence of the additional snowpack. The greatest factors contributing to flows will be rainfall amounts and intensities, the speed at which the snowpack melts and timing relative to rainfall events. On a positive note, many streamflows are below normal for this time of year, ahead of the approaching rain and melt.
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.
Ice conditions will deteriorate during warmer temperatures. Cataraqui Conservation does not measure ice thickness for advising the public about ice conditions for recreational activities. Ice conditions can vary considerably from one waterbody to the next and within a single waterbody. No ice is without some risk. Visit lifesaving.org for ice safety information.

Widespread flooding is NOT expected at this time. However, the usual springtime inundation of low-lying areas can be expected. If you witness flooding and/or require assistance your first point of contact is the local municipality.

Staff will continue to monitor conditions and forecasts and will update statements as needed. This advisory will expire on March 20, 2025.

For up-to-date flooding information, please visit our flood forecasting and information page at https://cataraquiconservation.ca/pages/flood.