OPG advises caution on northern rivers and lakes

Weather forecasts call for warm temperatures and rain across the north this weekend. This, combined with the annual freshet or run off, could make waterways run faster than usual.

Hydroelectric facilities are often remotely controlled to generate electricity as needed. This causes frequent and rapid changes in the water flow and levels often creating strong undertows, turbulence and sudden, powerful surges of water moving downstream in what was once calm looking surface water.

All waterways where an OPG dam or hydroelectric station is located have well-positioned warning signs, buoys, fences, booms and barriers.