Watershed Conditions Statement - Flood Outlook - March 9, 2026

Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook – Continued
Date: March 9, 2026
Time: 12:45pm

Message sent on the basis of information received from:

• Kawartha Conservation Flood Forecasting Network
• Ministry of Natural Resources - Surface Water Monitoring Centre
• Environment and Climate Change Canada
• Trent-Severn Waterway

Based on updated information from Environment and Climate Change Canada and the Ministry of Natural Resources - Surface Water Monitoring Centre, Kawartha Conservation is extending the Watershed Conditions Statement - Flood Outlook through to noon on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

Above seasonal temperatures are continuing across the watershed this week. Daytime highs are forecast to remain well above freezing, with limited overnight cooling. Rain is expected Tuesday night into Wednesday, with additional precipitation possible later in the week. While forecast rainfall amounts are currently expected to be moderate, the combination of rainfall and sustained snowmelt will continue to drive runoff into local streams, rivers, and lakes.

The existing snowpack across the watershed contains a significant amount of stored water. Continued melting, combined with rainfall, will result in rising water levels and increased flows throughout the week. Watercourses that have already responded to last week’s weather will remain elevated, and further increases are expected, particularly in smaller tributaries and low-lying areas.

Residents along the Burnt River watershed, as well as other watercourses across the Kawartha Conservation jurisdiction, should anticipate fluctuating water levels and increased flows. Ice cover on lakes and rivers will continue to weaken and break up, creating hazardous and unpredictable conditions for anyone near the water. Ice should be considered unsafe.

While widespread flooding is not anticipated at this time, localized flooding and water pooling may occur in low-lying areas, roadways, along shorelines, and in locations where drainage is restricted or blocked. Elevated water levels and faster flowing water will create hazardous conditions near all watercourses. Riverbanks may be slippery and unstable, and water structures such as bridges, culverts, and dams should be avoided.

Kawartha Conservation advises residents to:

• Stay away from all watercourses and flood-prone areas.
• Keep children and pets away from rivers, streams, and ponds.
• Exercise caution when driving through areas where water may pool on roadways.
• Ensure nearby catch basins and drainage areas are clear of debris where safe to do so.

Kawartha Conservation continues to closely monitor weather forecasts, water levels, and flows across the watershed. We remain in communication with partner agencies including the Trent-Severn Waterway, Ministry of Natural Resources - Surface Water Monitoring Centre, and neighboring Conservation Authorities.

Northern tributaries, such as the Burnt River and Gull River, are monitored by Ministry of Natural Resources staff. Residents with questions regarding water levels along these rivers are encouraged to contact the Minden Area Office at 705-286-1521 or refer to current flood messages issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources.

Watershed residents, local municipalities, and partner agencies will continue to receive updates through the Kawartha Conservation website, media outlets, and social media channels. Residents may also subscribe to receive flood messages directly.

If you are aware of or have concerns about flooding, please contact Kawartha Conservation at 705.328.2271 or 705.344.0155 after hours.

This Watershed Conditions Statement - Flood Outlook will remain in effect until noon on Wednesday, March 11 2026, and will be continued to be upgraded as conditions warrant.