Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for Durham Region, saying significant rainfall is expected.
“Total rainfall amounts of 15 to 20 mm possible. The frozen ground has a reduced ability to absorb this rainfall,” it said while adding that the rain will start Tuesday morning continuing through to Tuesday night.
Environment Canada said ice accretion is possible due to freezing rain in northern Durham.
Recent Rains
Meanwhile, the Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority said Cloca watershed received between 22 and 36mm of precipitation between Wednesday and Thursday, the majority of which was rainfall. Combined with the warmer temperatures and snowmelt, this resulted in elevated water levels and ice break-up across our jurisdiction. Water levels have since peaked and are receding.
The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority is asking all residents and children to stay away from all watercourses, shorelines and structures such as bridges, culverts dams, and breakwalls. Elevated water levels, fast flowing water, slippery conditions, freezing spray, and waves along stream banks and shorelines continue to make these locations extremely dangerous. Children should be warned to stay away from all watercourses and keep a safe distance from shorelines.
This Water Safety Statement will be in effect through Tuesday February 22nd, or until further notice. The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority will continue to monitor the conditions of the streams and will provide updates as required.