Due to changing weather conditions with melting snow and ice, on March 17, South Nation Conservation issued a Water Safety Statement for the area it serves.
Rain forecasted over the weekend combined with above freezing temperatures is contributing to snow and ice melt.
Temperatures are to remain above zero this week, further contributing to snow and ice melt.
Precipitation and snowmelt will increase water levels and flows in rivers, potentially causing nuisance flooding in low-lying areas. Unstable ice conditions may also be present in systems.
As snow continues to melt, rivers and streams 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.
Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution when near rivers and water bodies due to increasing river flows and slippery conditions. 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 three metres from the dwelling.
• Securing items that might float away as flows increase.
This water safety statement is in effect until March 31, 2023 at 5 p.m. or until an update has been issued.
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 [email protected], post on our Facebook
(/SouthNationConservation) or Twitter (@SouthNationCA).
