Email icon Back to Search

(South Nation Conservation press release (UPDATE March 24)

Weather Forecast

Environment Canada forecasts rainfall amounts ranging from 20 to 30 mm this week until Friday, March 26. Daytime temperatures are expected to be above freezing this week and next week. Overnight temperatures will drop below freezing on March 28, which will cause the freeze-thaw cycle to resume.

Environmental Conditions

A substantial amount of the snowpack throughout the watershed has melted due to the warming weather. Water levels are above normal but within average ranges for this time of year. Levels have peaked and have been slowly declining.

Risks

Based on this week's weather forecast calling for rain, the remaining snowpack is expected to melt and cause water levels to rise again across the watershed.

Ice cover in rivers and streams may break up due to warm temperatures and higher flows, increasing the risk of ice jams and associated overbank flooding.

Higher than normal water levels may also cause nuisance flooding in low-lying areas.

ACTION

Residents are advised to stay away from rivers as the weather forecast 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.
  • Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
  • 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 Wednesday, April 7, 2021.

SNC monitors 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, post on our Facebook (/SouthNationConservation) or Twitter (@SouthNationCA).

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Omar Kana'n, Water Resources Specialist – Engineering, 1-877-984-2948, okanan@nation.on.ca.