The Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority has downgraded its flood watch for the Rice Lake shoreline, saying water levels are continuing to decline following peak spring runoff.
The flood watch, originally issued April 16th, has now been replaced with a Watershed Conditions Statement for water safety, reflecting improving conditions across the region.
Officials say Rice Lake levels peaked April 21st at 187.2 metres above sea level and have since dropped to 187.03 metres. While that remains about 21 centimetres above normal for this time of year, levels are steadily falling by two to four centimetres per day.
Dry weather is expected through the first weekend of May, with about 10 millimetres of rain forecast for Monday. Conservation officials say that rainfall is not expected to significantly impact the downward trend.
While the risk of shoreline flooding is now considered low, Ganaraska Conservation says hazards remain.
Residents are being warned about potential shoreline erosion, particularly during onshore winds, as well as slippery and saturated banks and cold water temperatures.
Light winds from the northwest are expected through the weekend, which could contribute to localized shoreline impacts.
The authority is reminding residents to exercise caution near the water and to keep children and pets away from unsafe shoreline areas.
The water safety statement remains in effect until Wednesday, May 6th at noon.
Conservation Authority staff say they will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as needed.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
