by the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
Although much of the snow has already melted, some snow remains in the watershed, especially in the upper Rideau Valley watershed areas.
The forecasted rain and on-going snowmelt are expected to keep water levels elevated and cause some flooding in all low-lying areas, especially those identified below. Parks Canada staff who manage the water levels for the Rideau Canal have indicated that water levels in upper watershed lakes will continue to rise as the snowpack melts.
Some specific areas of concern are highlighted below:
- A FLOOD WATCH continues for all the low-lying areas along Stevens Creek and Taylor Drain in the Village of North Gower.
- A FLOOD OUTLOOK continues for all the low-lying areas around the smaller creeks and streams in the Rideau Valley Watershed, including any connected creeks or ditches.
Extreme caution should be exercised by everyone when near local waterbodies. Parents should inform their children of the risks and provide appropriate supervision. Pets should be leashed near all bodies of water. Please contact your municipality if you see any ice jams that are causing localized flooding.
Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas, historically susceptible to flooding, should continue to take the necessary precautions to protect their property, such as:
- Ensuring sump pump is clear, in good working condition and has a backwater valve
- Ensuring easy access to a portable backup generator and pump
- Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 metres from the dwelling
- Securing items that might float away as flows increase
- Removing valuable items from basements or lower floors that could be subject to flooding
- Keeping emergency phone numbers handy
- Familiarizing yourself with your municipality’s Emergency Preparedness Plan
This watershed conditions statement is in effect until March 31, 2022, at 5 p.m. and will be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.
