Conservation Authorities Issue Flood Watch for Lakes & Streams

Jeff Green | Mar 19, 2025

The Cataraqui, Rideau, and Mississippi Valley Conservation Authorities have all issued statements due to snowmelt and rainfall runoff, resulting in elevated flows and water levels and increased likelihood of flooding in certain portions of the region.

Above normal temperatures and heavy rains last weekend, followed by rain late this week and a return to warmer than seasonal temperatures this coming weekend, have raised flooding concerns broadly across the region.

Runoff from rapid snowmelt and rainfall has resulted in high flows on watercourses and high-water levels on inland lakes. As well, lake levels will continue to rise for several days. Water Managers have increased discharge and continue to monitor levels closely to limit, as much as possible, negative impacts from the rainfall runoff. CA\Cataraqui Conservation (CRCA) issued a Flow Watch on Monday, March 17, noting some specific locations where water levels are well above normal seasonal averages. In this region, those include: : Loughborough Lake  , Buck Lake, Canoe Lake,  Kingsford Lake,  Devil Lake, Lake Opinicon, Sand Lake Cranberry Lake, and Dog Lake.

Connected lakes and watercourses, associated with the above list, may also be affected. Residents in flood-prone or low-lying areas, historically susceptible to flooding, are advised to remove items stored in the floodplains of area watercourses and lakes. If you witness flooding and/or require assistance your first point of contact is the local municipality.

In a release on Tuesday, March 18, Mississippi Valley Conservation (MVC) issued a Flood Outlook statement, which is one level below a Flood Watch, with specific reference to rivers within the watershed

“Larger rivers such as the Clyde, Fall and Mississippi Rivers will see a significant increase in flows and water levels as snowmelt continues to occur. Levels are expected to increase to springtime elevations on both Dalhousie and Mississippi Lakes. Additionally, these conditions elevate the risk for ice buildup.

On the same day, Rideau Valley Conservation (RVCA) issued a Flood Watch extending throughout the entire watershed, mentioning ice break up and the potential for ice jams as a specific risk.

“The recent freeze-thaw cycle reduced the melting of ice on river bodies. As the temperature increases, the ice cover is expected to continue weakening and breaking up, creating a risk of ice jamming.

“The forecasted above-freezing temperatures will continue the snow and ice melt, potentially leading to increases in water levels and flows. Increasing potential for ice to mobilize and create ice jamming.

“Rising water levels and faster flows will continue to weaken ice cover, leading to hazardous conditions near lakes, rivers, and streams (slippery or unstable banks). Ice is unsafe for recreational activities, and shifting ice could pose risks to infrastructure,” said the release.

For tis part 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,” said the CRCA release.