​MVCA issues flood outlook statement due to excessive rainfall in watershed

The Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) has issued a watershed conditions statement – flood outlook and water safety, for all municipalities within the Maitland River and Nine Mile River watersheds.

A series of thunderstorms over the past three days has brought 40-60 millimetres (mm) of rainfall to the area. Light, scattered showers are forecasted to continue through Wednesday (April 15), followed by additional thunderstorm activity overnight and again on Thursday afternoon (April 16). An additional 15-25 mm of rainfall is forecast.

Stream and river levels are expected to approach or slightly exceed bankfull, with minor flooding likely in typical low-lying areas. Significant flooding is not anticipated, based on current forecasted rainfall amounts. However, thunderstorms Wednesday night and Thursday may produce localized rainfall exceeding forecast totals.

While widespread flooding is not expected, areas that receive higher, localized rainfall will experience increased flooding risk due to saturated ground conditions and already elevated water levels.

Municipal officials have been asked to monitor low-lying and flood-prone roads. Residents are reminded to exercise caution near all watercourses. Slippery and unstable streambanks, combined with cold, fast-flowing water, will create hazardous conditions. Elevated water levels will persist into the beginning of next week.

The MVCA will continue to monitor weather forecasts and watershed conditions and will provide updates as needed. This message is in effect until the afternoon of Tuesday, April 21.