Watershed Conditions - Flood Watch Statement
April 6, 2014 at 9:00 a.m.
SOUTH NATION WATERSHED – South Nation Conservation (SNC) is updating the watershed statement “Flood Outlook” issued on April 3rd to “Flood Watch” as part of the Flood Forecasting and Warning Program. The purpose of this bulletin is to provide information regarding the forecasted weather and the potential of flooding throughout the SNC jurisdiction.
Environment Canada reported approximately 10-15 mm rainfall on last Friday which increased the flows throughout the South Nation River. Environment Canada also forecasts an increase in temperatures for the next week with a high of 13 OC and approximately 10 mm of rainfall on Monday April 7th.
Currently all the stream gauge stations reported above normal water level for this time of year. There is still a lot of snowpack on the ground with high water content.
Severe flooding is not a concern at this time; however, nuisance flooding in low-lying areas may be observed. Furthermore, due to large ice and snow packs, the potential for blocked storm drains, catch basins and culverts are very high, which may also cause localized flooding. Ice covering larger water courses can become unstable due to higher water levels, increasing the potential for ice jamming.
Residents are advised to stay away from rivers as the forecasted weather may rapidly increase river flows, cause slippery river banks, and weaken ice cover. Parents are encouraged to explain these dangers to their children.
SNC cautions residents to be aware of the potential for flooding, fast flowing water and the associated risks. Residents in low lying should check to ensure their sump pumps are functional.
SNC staff will continue to monitor the water levels and weather forecasts as part of the Flood Forecasting and Warning program and will provide updates in the event conditions change.
SNC encourages the public to visit our webpage at www.nation.on.ca and to also provide feedback with respect to changes in water related conditions in their local areas (i.e. high water elevations, road inundation, ice break-up, etc.). All enquiries can be sent to Sandra Mancini or Golam Sharif at smancini@nation.on.ca or gsharif@nation.on.ca. For additional information please contact at SNC 1-877-984-2948 ext. 223 or 373.