WATERSHED CONDITIONS: WATER SAFETY STATEMENT

February 26th, 2024

Alert level: Water Safety Statement (level 2 of 4)

Weather Forecast: Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting continued mild weather, with up to 35 mm of rainfall Wednesday evening. Temperatures are expected to return to below zero late Wednesday evening and Thursday morning before increasing to daytime highs of 10 degrees or higher over the weekend.

Environmental Conditions: Snowmelt due to warmer temperatures, combined with anticipated rainfall may result in increased water levels and flows in rivers, potentially causing nuisance flooding in low-lying areas. Unstable ice conditions may also be present in systems.

Risks: All rivers and streams across the jurisdiction may experience higher water levels, fast flowing water and slippery or unstable banks. Additionally, these conditions elevate the risk for ice breakup.

ACTION: Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution when near rivers and waterbodies due to high 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 3 m from the dwelling.
  • Securing items that might float away as flows increase.

Duration: This water safety statement is in effect until March 4, 2024 at 5 PM 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 waterwatch@nation.on.ca, post on our Facebook (/SouthNationConservation) or Twitter (@SouthNationCA).

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 

Kat Watson, Coordinator, Early Warning Systems and Watershed Plans,
1-877-984-2948, kwatson@nation.on.ca.