Rain may produce ‘nuisance flooding’ MVCA says
Special to WC Online
WEST CARLETON — With unseasonably warm temperatures across the Ottawa Valley along with lots of precipitation, the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) says water flows and levels are on their way up, but mostly “nuisance flooding” is all that is expected.
“With warmer temperatures and rainfall forecasted for today (Dec. 31) and into next week across the Mississippi and Carp River watersheds, flows and levels are anticipated to increase,” MVCA water resources technologist Jennifer North released in a statement today. “Large river systems and inland lakes are not expected to flood at this time, although, ice jams can form along the river. This can cause water levels to rise quickly without warning. Nuisance flooding is likely to occur around small watercourses, urban areas, and ditches.”
Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain a close watch on levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:
• Ensuring sump pumps are clear and in good working condition
• Removing or securing items that might float away as flows increase.
“Ice conditions can change drastically due to increased flows and rising temperatures,” North said. “The shoreline adjacent to lakes, rivers and creeks is very slippery and poses a serious hazard. Falling into open water could result in hypothermia or drowning.”
The MVCA reminds the public to exercise extreme caution around all water bodies:
- The public and pets should stay off all frozen water bodies.
- Parents are urged to remind children about the dangers of playing on or near ice covered surfaces and open water.
“This Watershed Conditions Statement is in effect until the end of the day on Thursday, Jan. 6, 2023 or an update is issued,” North said.
Please visit the MVCA’s website for more information on:
- Water levels and flow data: mvc.on.ca/water-levels
- Watershed Conditions Messages: mvc.on.ca/watershed-conditions-message.
