Mississippi River watershed jumps to flood warning

WEST CARLETON – What a difference a couple of days can make. On April 20, the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) issued a flood watch for the Mississippi River watershed.

Two days later the MVCA upgraded that watch to a flood warning.

“The Mississippi River continues to rise as water moves through the system,” the MVCA water management team released in a statement today (April 22). 

Dalhousie Lake surpassed the 1:10 year flood threshold (157.50 metres above sea level) yesterday (April 21) and continues to climb towards the 1:25 year flood threshold (157.80 masl) today, with current levels reaching 157.60 masl.

“The lake is expected to rise an additional 10 centimetres in the next 24 hours,” the MVCA said. “Water levels and flows are expected to continue rising in the Mississippi River downstream of Dalhousie Lake. Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas historically susceptible to flooding should take the necessary precautions to protect their property.”

Upper Lakes (Shabomeka, Mazinaw, Little Marble, Marble, Kashwakamak, Big Gull and Mississagagon) remain in seasonal flood conditions.

“Water levels have peaked and are expected to begin gradually receding this week with the forecasted break from the rain,” the MVCA said. “Major Tributaries (Clyde River, Fall River and Indian River) have peaked and levels and flows along these systems are receding towards seasonal levels.”

 A Flood Warning Statement indicates flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.

“Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions,” the MVCA said. “This may include road closures and evacuations. This flood warning is an update to the flood watch for the Mississippi River watershed issued  on April 20. This update applies to Dalhousie Lake and flood prone areas along the Mississippi River. Upper Lakes and major tributaries remain in a flood watch condition.”

Conditions are expected to stay generally dry this week. Cumulative total rainfall over the next seven days is expected to remain low, with less than 20 millimetres forecasted across the region. Air temperatures for the next two weeks are to remain mild with forecasted daily highs around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius.  

“Water levels and flows are elevated across the watershed,” the MVCA said. “Rivers and streams are experiencing higher water levels, fast flowing water and slippery or unstable banks. Roads, driveways, and properties in flood-prone areas could be impacted. Residents are reminded to stay off all water bodies due to high flows and slippery conditions. Parents are encouraged to remind children about these dangers and provide appropriate supervision.”

Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain close watch on water levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve.
• Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 meters from any structure.
• Removing or securing items that might float away if flows increase.
• Keeping emergency phone numbers handy.
• Familiarizing yourself with your municipality’s emergency preparedness plan.

This message is in effect until April 28, or until an update has been issued.

Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels.