WATERSHED CONDITIONS: Flood Outlook Statement – Update #3
This statement is an update to the Flood Outlook statement issued on March 26, 2019.
Weather Forecast:
Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting a freeze-thaw cycle and high temperatures of 2 to 10 °C until April 12, 2019. Total rainfall amounts of 10 to 20 mm are also expected today and tomorrow. There is potential for additional significant rainfall at the end of this week.
Environmental Conditions:
Since issuing the last statement, the South Nation Conservation (SNC) rain gauges have recorded 19 to 30 mm of rain across the jurisdiction. The SNC stream gauges have also recorded a slight increase in water levels due to recent precipitation and above-freezing temperatures. Water levels across the jurisdiction remain above average for this time of year.
Risks:
Forecasted precipitation and above-freezing temperatures will cause snow to melt and will increase water levels across the jurisdiction. This may cause flooding in low lying areas and increased potential for ice jams.
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 take the necessary precautions to protect their property, such as:
- Ensuring sump pump is clear, in good working condition and has a backwater valve equipped on it.
- Portable backup generator and 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 Monday, April 22, 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: Omar Kana’n, Water Resources Analyst, 1-877-984-2948, ext. 309, okanan@nation.on.ca.
FORWARDED TO: All Flood Forecasting and Warning Directory
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