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WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT: Flood Outlook

Submitted by T Campbell on Mon, 09/03/2020 - 2:55pm
09-Mar-2020 27-Mar-2020

Weather Forecast:
Environment Canada is forecasting a general freeze-thaw cycle for the next 7 days as well as the potential for 10 to 20 mm of rain starting this evening and lasting through to tomorrow, March 10th. An additional 10 to 20 mm of rain is also possible at the end of this week, starting Thursday, March 12th.

Environmental Conditions:
Recent precipitation and warm temperatures have melted some of the snowpack, causing water levels to rise above normal in most parts of the watershed for this time of year.

Risks:
Based on current forecasts, continued melt is expected with increased runoff from rain.

Ice cover in rivers and streams may breakup as a result of warm temperatures and higher flows, increasing the risk of ice jams and associated overbank flooding.

Higher than normal water levels may cause nuisance flooding in low-lying areas.

ACTION:
Residents are advised to stay away from rivers as the forecasted weather may rapidly increase river flows and banks might be unstable and slippery. Parents are encouraged to explain these dangers to their children.

Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas, historically susceptible to flooding, should also take the necessary precautions to protect their property, such as:

  • Ensuring sump pump is clear, in good working condition and has a backwater valve on it.
  • Portable generator and backup pump.
  • Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 m from the dwelling.
  • Removing or securing items that might float away as flows increase.
  • Removing valuable items from basements or lower floors that could be subject to flooding.
  • Keep emergency phone numbers handy.
  • Familiarize yourself with your municipality’s emergency preparedness plan.

Duration:
This statement is in effect until Tuesday, March 17th, 2020.

SNC monitors water levels and weather forecasts as part of the Flood Forecasting and Warning Program. Updates are provided as conditions change.

Please visit www.nation.on.ca for more information. To provide feedback with respect to changes in water related conditions please email waterwatch@nation.on.ca, post on our Facebook (/SouthNationConservation) or Twitter (@SouthNationCA).

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Omar Kana’n, Water Resources Specialist – Engineering, 1-877-984-2948, okanan@nation.on.ca.

Forwarded to:  All Flood Forecasting and Warning Directory

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