UPDATE: FLOOD OUTLOOK

South Nation Conservation (SNC) advises that the Flood Outlook Statement issued on March 4th will be extended to March 18, 2025. Warmer temperatures and rain will continue throughout the week and flooding of low-lying areas, floodplains, and areas with poor drainage may be possible.

Weather Forecast: Environment Canada is forecasting warmer temperatures and the possibility of rain at the end of the week. Daytime temperatures are expected to reach 13°C by Saturday. Rainfall amounts of 10-15 mm Saturday overnight into Sunday are forecasted.

Environmental Conditions: Rainfall and snow melt will lead to increased water levels and flows in local streams and rivers. Widespread flooding is not anticipated, however, fast flowing water and flooding of low-lying areas, floodplains, and areas with poor drainage may be possible.

Risks: Rivers across the jurisdiction will result in higher water levels, fast flowing water and slippery or unstable banks. Additionally, these conditions elevate the risk for ice breakup and ice jams at bridges, culverts and other areas producing localized flooding concerns in low lying areas.

ACTION: Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution when near rivers and waterbodies due to increasing river flows and slippery conditions. Any ice-covered bodies of water are considered unsafe. 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. Please ensure:

• Sump pump is clear, in good working condition and has a backwater valve on it.
• Easy access to portable backup generator and pump.
• Downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 m from the dwelling.
• Driveway culverts are clear of debris and drain well.
• Securing items that might float away as flows increase.
  

Duration: This statement is in effect until March 18th, 2025 at 5 PM or until an update has been issued.

SNC monitors water levels and weather forecasts as part of the Flood Forecasting 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 [email protected], post on our Facebook (/SouthNationConservation) or Twitter (@SouthNationCA).

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Phillip Dagenais, Water Resources Specialist – Monitoring; 1-877-984-2948, .