Residents across Durham Region are being warned to stay away from rivers, streams and shorelines as heavy rain combined with melting snow could create dangerous conditions over the next several days.
The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (CLOCA) has issued a safety advisory as a series of weather systems moves through southern Ontario, bringing significant rainfall and rising water levels. Forecasters say the region could receive between 20 and 40 millimetres of rain, which, combined with warmer temperatures and snowmelt, may increase runoff into local waterways.
According to CLOCA Flood Duty Officer Lucy Benham, the changing weather conditions are expected to cause higher water levels, faster flowing streams and hazardous shoreline conditions.
“Warm air temperatures above freezing along with heavy rain are leading to elevated water levels, increased wave activity and fast-flowing water,” Benham said. “These conditions can make stream banks and Lake Ontario shorelines extremely dangerous.”
Officials are urging residents to stay away from watercourses, shorelines and infrastructure such as bridges, culverts and dams, where strong water currents and slippery surfaces could pose serious risks.
Authorities are also asking parents and guardians to remind children about the dangers of playing near rivers and streams during periods of high water levels.
The warning comes as the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry predicts a series of moisture-filled low-pressure systems will move across the region over the next several days.
These weather systems are expected to bring repeated periods of rainfall along with milder temperatures, which will accelerate snowmelt across parts of southern Ontario.
Officials say that frozen ground conditions combined with an estimated snow-water equivalent of about 100 millimetres will increase the amount of runoff entering local streams and rivers.
While widespread flooding is not currently expected, the conservation authority says localized flooding may occur in low-lying areas, particularly near rivers, creeks and flood-prone roadways.
Fast-moving water may also lead to temporary flooding in certain locations, especially where drainage systems are overwhelmed by heavy rainfall.
Another concern involves ice breakups along waterways, which can occur when warmer temperatures and rain weaken remaining ice cover.
If ice shifts or breaks apart, it can create ice jams, which may suddenly raise water levels upstream and increase the risk of localized flooding.
Environment Canada has also issued a rainfall warning for Durham Region and much of southern Ontario, forecasting heavy rainfall that could lead to water pooling on roads and flooding in low-lying areas.
Drivers are being advised to avoid flooded roadways and never attempt to drive through standing water, as hidden hazards or strong currents can cause vehicles to lose control.
Residents are also encouraged to stay alert for potential washouts near rivers, creeks and culverts, which can occur when water flows rapidly over or around infrastructure.
Officials recommend that residents monitor updates from local conservation authorities and provincial agencies for the latest flood and weather information.
The Durham Region flood risk warning serves as a reminder that rapidly changing weather conditions in late winter and early spring can significantly affect water levels across the region.
Authorities say residents should remain cautious and avoid unnecessary risks near waterways until conditions stabilize.
