With a potentially wet weekend ahead, the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) has issued a Flood Watch.
The watch applies to all municipalities in the Maitland and Nine Mile River watersheds. The statement means that flooding is possible but not imminent or certain.
According to the conservation authority, a snow survey carried out Thursday, confirmed that 60 to 100mm of snow water equivalent remains in the snowpack, with higher amounts generally found in northern and forested areas of the watershed.
This weekend, a near-complete melt is expected, along with up to 25mm of rainfall which is forecasted overnight Saturday through Sunday morning.
"If forecasted rainfall amounts materialize, river levels could reach those experienced in December 2008," said a statement from the MVCA. "Water levels will rise quickly throughout Saturday, likely exceeding bankfull and causing riverine flooding beyond typical low-lying areas. Peak flows are anticipated between Sunday morning and Monday night. Cresting flows may carry into Tuesday for downstream portions of the watershed."
The conservation authority recommends municipal officials check drainage systems, monitor low-lying and flood prone roads, and prepare for road closures.
Maitland Conservation will provide an update when conditions change.