Flood Watch – Ice Jams Remain in Lower Maitland and Nine Mile Rivers

Due to the formation of ice jams late last week and the potential for another rise in river levels, Maitland Conservation is re-issuing a Flood Watch for the Lower Maitland River including Saltford, and the mouth of the Nine Mile River in Port Albert.

Scattered showers this morning will be followed by steady rain through the afternoon and evening. Temperatures will continue to climb, reaching a high of 8°C through this evening and is expected to result in additional runoff from snowmelt. Ice breakup throughout the watershed will likely continue with elevated flows and may worsen existing jams. There’s also potential for new jams to form, typically at any major crossings, culverts, and river bends upstream of major river outlets. Ice jams are very unpredictable and bring the risk of flooding to low lying structures and roadways regardless of flood-prone history.

It is difficult to predict where ice jams will form and how long they will persist. Municipal staff should monitor crossing structures for ice jams and localized flooding. Residents are reminded not to attempt to drive or walk through flooded areas. Conditions can change rapidly, and access routes can quickly be cut-off.
A sudden drop in temperature tonight may strengthen jams and prolong this situation until our next warmup. Maitland Conservation staff will be closely monitoring the situation and will provide an update if conditions change. This message will remain in place until 4:00 pm on Saturday February 26, 2022.

- End of Message -
Contact: Jeff Winzenried, Flood Forecasting Supervisor
jwinzenried@mvca.on.ca 519-357-0890

Media Contact: Jayne Thompson, Communications Coordinator
jthompson@mvca.on.ca, 519-335-3557 ext. 226 Cell: 519-357-6670

Types of Flood Messages:
Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety - General watershed conditions are being assessed for high runoff potential that could lead to flooding, and to remind the public of general river safety issues.
Watershed Conditions Statement - Flood Outlook - Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.
Flood Watch - Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
Flood Warning - Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take action to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.