Cataraqui Conservation Updates Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety

Kingston – Cataraqui Conservation has updated its Water Safety Statement due to forecasted
warmer temps and rainfall and is asking residents and visitors to the Cataraqui Region to
exercise caution on waterbodies and near shorelines.
Weather Situation:

A period of thaw has arrived, bringing a mix of freezing rain and rain to the region today
(January 24) and rain January 25 and 26 (15 – 30 mm+ total rainfall). Temperatures will remain
mostly above zero °C today through January 28 (potentially as high as 5 °C on January 26),
before falling back below zero. Long range forecasts suggest February may begin with another
multi-day period of above average temps.

Risks:

Streamflows and lake levels are expected to increase from the forecasted rainfall and warmer
temperatures, and associated snowmelt, over the next five days. Ice safety concerns continue
as the warmer temperatures will further weaken the ice.

Cataraqui Conservation is urging caution when considering activities on the ice, particularly
around all dams (inflow and outflow channels), fast-flowing watercourses, and stormwater
ponds. 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.

Cataraqui Conservation does not use ice thickness measurements for evaluating ice conditions.
Due to climate variability ice formation may not be consistent and ice conditions can deteriorate
quickly. Based on observations by area water managers (representatives of local private power
companies, provincial and federal ministries responsible for water management) there is
concern for the condition of the ice, which 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, localized inundation of low-lying
and poorly drained areas is possible. 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 Watershed Conditions Statement will remain in effect until (or updated before) Wednesday,
February 7, 2024, at 11:59 PM.

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

See below for watershed conditions terminology:
Normal: No flood conditions exist
Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other
factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers,
children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook: Early notice of the potential for flooding
based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that
could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.
Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourse or municipalities. Municipalities,
emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or
municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take