As winter transitions into spring, warmer air temperatures and melting snow and ice increase the risk of hazards near rivers, lakes, and streams. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) reminds residents to take precautions and be aware of potential dangers around water this spring season.
Spring Safety Tips
- Exercise caution near water. Riverbanks, shorelines, and trails near water can be slippery due to melting snow and ice.
- Avoid recreational activities in or around water. Stay off of ice jams or ice-covered rivers and bodies of water.
- Keep family and pets away from the edges of rivers and streams. Cold, fast-moving water poses a serious risk if you fall in.
- Call 911 in an emergency. Rescuing someone from cold or fast-moving water is extremely dangerous.
- Avoid driving through flooded roads. Even shallow water can be stronger than it appears.
- Secure outdoor items. If you live near a river or stream, move furniture and objects away from the water’s edge.
CURRENT CONDITIONS
This winter has brought lots of snow and river ice to TRCA watersheds, with weather forecasts indicating more days with milder temperatures within the next few weeks. Melting of the current snowpack and river ice within TRCA watersheds will lead to higher-than-normal water levels in rivers and streams in the coming weeks.
Additionally, a rapid change in air temperature, combined with a rain-on-snow event, can lead to potential flooding, ice jams, and dangerous conditions around TRCA rivers. So, it is important to remain cautious around rivers this spring and follow safety tips. Get more information on spring safety.
TRCA actively monitors watershed conditions through its Flood Forecasting and Warning Program.
Throughout winter and early spring, staff assess river ice and snowpack to evaluate flood risks from ice jams, rainfall, and melting snow. TRCA shares this information with municipalities and if conditions indicate a potential flood risk, TRCA will issue a public flood message.
Stay informed by signing up for flood messages online.
Spring Safety Facts
- Riverbanks are slippery and unstable due to melting snow, rain, and fluctuating water levels.
- Ice on rivers, lakes, and ponds becomes weak and unpredictable as temperatures rise, making it unsafe to walk on.
- Frozen ground prevents water from soaking in, causing excess water to flow into rivers and streams, which can lead to flooding.
- Heavy spring rain can quickly raise water levels, leading to dangerous conditions near watercourses.
- Ice jams can block water flow, causing sudden and unpredictable flooding in the immediate areas.
- Fast-moving water is extremely dangerous and can make rescue efforts difficult.
- Spring brings changing conditions that can create hazards near water. Taking precautions and staying informed can help residents stay safe this spring. Get more spring safety information online.
Seasonal Spring Water Levels on Lake Ontario
The International Lake Ontario St. Lawrence River Board is responsible for the regulation of outflows from Lake Ontario and provides forecasts.
During spring, water levels for Lake Ontario rise due to the snow and rain runoff from all the river systems that drain into it. Elevated water levels, combined with an increase in wave action from high winds cause shortened beaches, flooding of low-lying areas next to the lake, higher than normal water levels at the mouths of rivers, as well as erosion to trails and other public spaces.
