STATEMENT ENDED: Rice Lake Shoreline

High runoff generated by snowmelt and above average rainfall caused flooding throughout the Trent River watershed impacting communities and lake shoreline residents including those on Rice Lake. The water level of Rice Lake peaked on April 21st at 187.2 meters above sea level (masl) and has since declined to 187.03 masl as of yesterday, which is still 21 cm above average for this time of year.

Water levels have been declining at a rate of 2 to 4 cm per day depending on the amount of rainfall received. Dry weather is expected through the first weekend in May and then 10 mm of rain is currently forecast for Monday, May 4th. The forecasted rain is not expected to change the steady recession of water levels.

While the threat of flooding along shorelines is decreasing, there is a risk of erosion particularly during onshore wind events. Steady light winds of 15 to 20 km/h from the Northwest direction are forecast through this weekend. Shoreline areas may still be saturated with slippery banks and cold-water temperatures. Residents are reminded to use caution around shorelines and alert any children in your care of these hazards.

This Watershed Conditions Statement for the shoreline of Rice Lake within the Ganaraska Region will be in effect until Wednesday, May 6th, 2026, at 12 p.m. Conservation Authority staff will continue to monitor watershed conditions and provide updates as necessary.

Note: A Watershed Conditions Statement for Water Safety is issued as notice of the potential for high flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.

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Should you have any questions or wish to report flooding, please contact the following GRCA staff (listed below) at 905.885.8173.

Mike Smith
Flood Operations Officer

Cory Harris, P.Eng.
Flood Forecasting & Warning Supervisor