Flood watch on St. Lawrence River

FINCH — South Nation Conservation (SNC) cautioned residents in a media release May 8th that low-lying areas of the St. Lawrence River in the Township of Augusta, Township of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal, and the Township of South Dundas that water levels may increase significantly.

Due to the precipitation and snow melt over the last few weeks, Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River are at historic water levels. It is expected that St. Lawrence River water levels will remain high over the next few weeks while water control structures are being operated.  The water levels along the St. Lawrence River will depend on the level of Lake Ontario and the outflow of the Moses-Saunders Dam at Cornwall.

“This will help lower levels on the River over the next few days, especially as one gets closer to the dam,” said Rob Caldwell — manager of the Great Lakes – St. Lawrence regulation office with Environment and Climate Change Canada. “Ontario Power Generation have begun to increase the outflows of the Moses-Saunders Dam. Levels may be slow to drop initially, and may in fact rise a bit more at first.”

Environment and Climate Change Canada does not forecast significant rain for this week.  “[Lake Ontario] should peak within centimetres of the current level,” said Caldwell.

Residents are also advised that wind may cause higher waves, further aggravating water levels which may affect structures closer to the shore.

South Nation Conservation advises residents to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable and parents are encouraged to explain these dangers to their children.

SNC staff will continue to monitor the water levels and weather forecasts as part of their flood forecasting and warning program.

The organization encourages the public to report changes in water-related conditions including soil stress fractures  or cracks in the soil, abrupt changes in stream banks, or sudden leaning of trees in their local areas.

Contact SNC at waterwatch@nation.on.ca or flood duty officers Jason Symington (613-984-2948 ext. 230) or Michael Jones (613-984-2948 ext. 310).