FLOOD WATCH: South Nation Watershed
Weather Forecast:
Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting above freezing temperatures for the rest of the week. Rainfall amounts of 30 to 40 mm are possible Thursday to Saturday.
Environmental Conditions:
Since issuing the last statement on April 8, the South Nation Conservation (SNC) rain gauges have recorded 20 to 30 mm of rain. Soil across the jurisdiction is saturated, and there is minimal snowpack remaining.
Stream gauges across the jurisdiction have recorded an increase in water levels due to recent precipitation; water levels remain above average for this time of year.
Risks:
The forecasted precipitation and above-freezing temperatures will increase water levels across the jurisdiction. Flooding is expected 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, April 23, 2019.
SNC monitors the 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, posted on our Facebook (/SouthNationConservation) or Twitter (@SouthNationCA).
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Jason Symington, Environmental Technologist, 613-551-9057, jsymington@nation.on.ca.
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES: John Mesman, Team Lead of Communications, 613-899-5341, jmesman@nation.on.ca.
FORWARDED TO: All Flood Forecasting and Warning Directory
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