Conditions are within normal limits and no flooding is expected.
Flood Status & Low Water Status
Water Levels and Flooding
The rivers and creeks in southern Ontario follow a typical seasonal flow pattern. During the winter, there are often brief periods of warmer temperatures. This can cause snow and ice to melt, increasing water levels and causing flooding. Rain that falls on snow or frozen ground can cause severe and widespread flooding. Melting snow and lots of rain in the spring may also cause high water levels and flooding. During the summer, localized thunderstorms are usually the cause of flooding. In the fall, intense rain from large storms is common and can also cause flooding. Remember that high water levels and flows can occur anytime of the year, so stay aware and stay safe.
Flooding can affect development near lakes, rivers, creeks, and streams. Floods are the most common and costly type of natural disaster. Removing vegetation, altering shorelines, and increasing paved areas can cause more severe flooding. Climate change can also cause extreme weather events, resulting in flooding more often.
Otonabee Conservation reduces the potential for damage and loss from flooding by:
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- Regulating development to keep it away from flood-prone areas.
- Protecting developed areas by building water control structures or diversions.
- Providing information to residents and municipalities about possible flooding.
Flood Forecasting and Warning
Our flood forecasting and warning program protects life and property from flooding. To do this, staff review available data and complete a flood risk analysis each day. If flooding is possible or expected, we issue a flood message. This information helps residents and municipalities get prepared. You can view current and past flood messages on our website and social media platforms.
We issue different types of flood messages, depending on forecasted conditions:
Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety
High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice, or other factors could be dangerous. Flooding is not expected. Recreational users such as anglers, paddlers, hikers, and children should use caution.
Watershed Condition Statement - Flood Outlook
Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecast. Heavy rain, snow melt, or high winds could lead to increased runoff, ice jams, flooding, or erosion.
Issued when flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services, and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
Issued when flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take actions which may include road closures and evacuations.
Preparing for Flooding
If you experience a flood emergency, dial 911 immediately!
To learn more about how you can be prepared for flooding, check out the following resources.
- The Province of Ontario has additional resources related to flooding and erosion.
- The Government of Canada has some great emergency preparedness resources to help you get flood ready or get prepared for an emergency
- Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation has information about what to do after a flood
- Flood Information Maps are available for the province of Ontario
- Peterborough Public Health has resources available about how to protect your health during a flood
- Floodsmart Canada has a variety of resources available to support flood awareness and preparedness.
Monitoring Water Levels, Flow, Precipitation and Climate
Our monitoring network collects information about precipitation, water levels, and water flow. We also gather information climate information including air temperature, soil temperature, and soil moisture. We use this data for our Flood Forecasting and Warning and Low Water Response Programs. Use our interactive map to view precipitation and water levels.
Our monitoring network includes:
- Five locations where we measure intensity, duration, and total amount of rainfall events
- Three locations where we measure mixed precipitation receipts (snow, rain, and mixed precipitation)
- Two locations where we measure snow depth and water content
- Two locations where we measure soil moisture and soil temperature
- Four locations where me measure air temperature
We also have access to other monitoring networks in our watershed region including:
- Atmospheric chemistry and precipitation are measured by Environment and Climate Change Canada at Warsaw Caves Conservation Area
- Air temperature, precipitation, wind speed, and direction are measured by Environment and Climate Change Canada at Peterborough Municipal Airport and Trent University
- Six locations where the intensity, duration, and total amount of rainfall is measured by the City of Peterborough
- Data collected by volunteer Citizen Scientists who measure the amount of rain, hail, or snow that falls in their community
Contact Us
250 Milroy Drive
Peterborough, ON K9H 7M9
Voice: 705-745-5791
Fax: 705-745-7488
Email: otonabeeca@otonabeeconservation.com
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