Freezing rain, flood warning for Durham

Environment Canada says light rain or drizzle is expected to develop early Friday morning and continue through the day before becoming heavier Friday night. Rain may become heavy at times and will continue into Saturday before mixing with or changing to freezing rain Saturday evening.

Total rainfall amounts of 25 to 50 millimetres are possible. Freezing rain or rain will continue Saturday night before coming to an end Sunday morning.

Drivers are reminded to drive according to the road and weather conditions and to stay a safe distance back from other vehicles, including snowplows. Ensure all vehicles are off the road to allow for snow clearing operations. Temporary parking passes are not valid during a snow event, and new passes may not be issued for the approximate duration of the cleanup, said a Clarington advisory.

If you are physically able, clear snow and ice from around your hydrant to allow firefighters easy access to the area during an emergency. To prevent flooding, we encourage residents to also clear snow and ice from on-street catch basins in front of their homes.

Do not park on the street during a snow event at any time of day or night. Even with a parking permit, you can be ticketed or towed. Watch a Day in the Life of a Snowplow Driver to find out why it’s problematic.

Snow Plow Operator Paul tries to navigate the plow through a tight squeeze due to cars parked on the road. This is one of the many challenges our drivers face during the winter months.

Flood Warning

The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (Cloca) advises that the forecast rainfall combined with frozen ground conditions, warm temperatures, and associated snowmelt, could result in increased runoff causing higher than normal water levels and flows in streams.

In addition, melting ice and snow may contribute to ice jams and blockages, especially at bridges and culverts, which may lead to localized flooding. Localized flooding can be expected on roadways and in low lying and flood prone areas.

Cloca is asking all residents and children to stay away from all watercourses and structures such as bridges, culverts and dams. Elevated water levels, fast flowing water, and slippery conditions along
stream banks continue to make these locations extremely dangerous. Children should be warned to stay away from all watercourses and ponds.

This Flood Outlook will be in effect through Monday January 13, or until further notice, it said.

ALSO READ:

Significant winter storm alert for Durham