New Ward 5 sandbag stations for the weekend

WEST CARLETON – Flooding in low-lying areas is possible with the risk of an ice storm this weekend, and there are now five sandbag stations available in West Carleton.

“The recent melt has released a significant amount of water onto lands, and into drainage systems, creeks, and rivers,” Ward 5 Coun. Clarke Kelly released in a statement today (March 28). “To help support residents, the city has added sandbag-filling locations at a number of locations across Ward 5.”

There are now five stations located near riverside communities.

You can now find sandbag station at:

• 262 Len Purcell Dr. (the Constance Bay community centre)
• 4127 John Shaw Rd.
• Lighthouse Lane at Logger’s Way
• Greenland Road dead end at Armitage Avenue
• Moorehead Drive water access

You can find all the locations across the city here. 

“We wish to emphasize this is not an indication of imminent risk of flooding,” Kelly said.

Forecasts are predicting a spring storm that will stretch late Friday into Monday, bringing a mix of weather conditions. Precipitation is expected to range from five to 15 millimetres, with amounts potentially exceeding 20 mm in some areas. Significant ice accretion is expected from freezing rain including possible snow and ice pellet accumulations of five to 15 centimetres.

“Rivers have stabilized over the last week but are expected to increase again due to the continuing weather conditions,” the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) released in a statement yesterday (March 27). “Springtime levels and flows are expected to continue into next week. While widespread flooding is not anticipated, flooding in low-lying areas and areas with poor drainage is possible. Rivers and streams remain high with fast flowing water. Ice cover areas, where they exist, are expected to weaken, and break up, creating a risk of ice jamming.”

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.