Status: Flood Outlook Statement
Watershed Conditions Statement - Spring Outlook (Updated March 29)
Friday, March 29, 2019 (1:30 PM)
This Statement is an update to the Flood Outlook Statement issued on March 25, 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.
Water levels and stream flows across the region are moderately elevated due to recent and ongoing snow melt and freshet like conditions. The impact of recent warm temperatures and rainfall could have compacted the significant snow pack reducing its ability to absorb rainfall. Forecast precipitation on frozen ground or on compacted snow are likely to increase runoff and streamflow with a potential for flooding conditions in low-lying areas. Risks may also include degradation of river ice and ice jam related flooding from increasing flows in area streams/rivers with a known history of ice jams. 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, April 1, 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
About Flood Forecasting and Warning in the RRCA
The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) is responsible for flood related emergencies. Flood forecasting and warning has been delegated to Conservation Authorities. If a local emergency is declared, MNRF will work directly with the municipality and in consultation with the Conservation Authority.
The Raisin Region Conservation Authority monitors precipitation and water levels throughout Cornwall, South Glengarry, and large portions of North Glengarry and South Stormont.
About Flood Forecasting Notices
Normal
No flood conditions exist.
Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety
High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
Watershed Conditions Statement - Flood Outlook
Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.
Flood Watch
Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
Flood Warning
Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.
In the event of a flood status of anything other than normal, the RRCA will issue a media release and advise our member municipalities.