March 18, 2019

The Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) is advising residents and landowners near rivers and creeks to be prepared for possible flooding during the spring melt this year.

The snowpack throughout the region is holding substantial water content. There is potential for above average flooding this spring across the RRCA jurisdiction, particularly in low-lying areas that have flooded in the past.  There is also a concern for flooding along laneways and driveways due to snow/ice and debris accumulation within the ditches and culverts.

Additionally, this year’s cold winter has resulted in thicker than usual ice cover on the rivers; this may lead to ice jamming and ice piling as the rivers break up.

Above-freezing daytime temperatures are forecasted for this week.  As the snow continues to melt, water levels in rivers and creeks are expected to rise and weaken ice cover on lakes, ditches, local streams and rivers. Extreme caution should be exercised when near waterbodies. Parents should inform their children of the risks and provide appropriate supervision.

Residents should take the necessary precautions to protect their property, such as:

• Ensuring sump pump is clear, in good working condition and has a backwater valve
• Ensuring easy access to a portable backup generator and pump
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is as least 3 metres from the dwelling
• Securing items that might float away as flows increase
• Removing valuable items from basements or lower floors that could be subject to flooding
• Keeping emergency phone numbers handy

This statement is in effect until Monday, March 25, 2019.   The RRCA will continue to monitor water levels and weather forecasts as part of the Flood Forecasting and Warning program and will provide updates as conditions change.

For more information : Lisa Van De Ligt, Communications Specialist, (613) 938-3611 ext. 223, lisa.vandeligt@rrca.on.ca