The Water Security Agency (WSA) is advising the public that fast moving water, wind and wave action, and floating debris can create significant problems in flooded areas on both the water and the shoreline of lakes.
Many communities have also put in place flood mitigation works that can be impacted by high wave action.
Boaters should be aware that many lakes and rivers have been severely impacted by recent flooding and that special precautions need to be taken in these areas:
Boat use on lakes where flooding has occurred should be restricted to emergency use only. High water areas contain debris and submerged objects that are not visible, putting boaters at high risk.
Boat speeds should be reduced to 10 km/h within 30 metres (100 feet) of the shore. Flooded shorelines are extremely vulnerable to damage from boat wake and prop wash.
Strong wind and wave activity striking the banks can cause rapid and severe erosion, and damage to dikes and retaining walls. Wake impact can also churn up sediments, degrading the aquatic environment.
Docks and loading areas may be damaged and should not be relied on for safe use.
Boat speeds should be reduced and caution exercised near temporary berms, as wake activity can cause disruption of these berms.
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