MVCA issues statement warning of minor flooding and water safety

Unseasonably mild temperatures are forecast to continue for the next several days and rain is expected later this week.

This has prompted the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) to issue a watershed conditions statement, regarding minor flooding in low-lying areas, and water safety.

The warm temperatures will diminish what is left of the snowpack, states the MVCA. Approximately 20 millimetres (mm) of water-equivalent currently remains in the snowpack in some parts of the Maitland and Nine Mile watersheds.

Current forecasts are suggesting 15-20 mm of rain will fall Thursday and into Friday. Monitoring also shows that soil water content is nearing ground saturation.

While significant flooding is not expected at this time, levels in streams and rivers may reach or exceed bankfull conditions, resulting in some minor flooding in low-lying areas. Municipal officials should monitor low-lying and flood-prone roads.

The MVCA reminds people that slippery and unstable streambanks and cold water temperatures will create hazardous conditions around all watercourses.

The MVCA is monitoring watershed conditions and will provide an update if warranted. This statement is in effect until 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 24.