Flood watches and warnings downgraded across Rideau Valley Watershed

A number of flood watches and warnings along the Rideau Valley Watershed are being downgraded as water levels have started to decline.

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority says rainfall amounts close to 50 mm fell over much of the watershed between April 18 and April 20, increasing water levels and flows over the Easter weekend. 

It says conditions have now stabilized and water levels and flows are declining in all areas. 

The forecast is calling for 10 to 20 mm of rain to fall starting Tuesday evening, into Wednesday, but it is not expected to significantly increase water levels.

The RVCA says the only places it thinks flooding could get slightly worse are around Bob's Lake and Christie Lake, as they are at capacity, and although the lakes' water levels are almost stabilized, they might still go up with the incoming rain.

A flood warning is ended for the following areas:

• Properties around Bob's Lake, Christie Lake and Tay River in the upper Rideau Valley Watershed
• Properties around Wolfe Lake in the upper Rideau Valley Watershed. 
• Properties around the smaller creeks and streams in the lower Rideau Valley Watershed, including the low-lying roads and waterfront properties adjacent to the Jock River (near Richmond) and Stevens Creek (near North Gower), and any connected creeks or ditches.
• Properties around the Long Reach (Burritts Rapids to Kars) of the Rideau River.

A flood watch is now ended for the following areas:

• Properties around Big Rideau Lake
• Properties along the Rideau River from Smiths Falls through Burritts Rapids
• Streets and parkland along the Rideau River on Belmont Avenue, on Rideau River Drive at
• Belmont Avenue, Windsor Park and Brantwood Park

The RVCA says extreme caution should be exercised by everyone when near local waterways. It urges parents to inform their children of the risks, and provide appropriate supervision.

Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas, historically susceptible to flooding, should continue to take the necessary precautions to protect their property, such as:

• Ensuring sump pump is clear, in good working condition and has a backwater valve 
• Ensuring easy access to a portable backup generator and pump
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least three metres from the dwelling 
• Securing items that might float away as flows increase 
• Removing valuable items from basements or lower floors that could be subject to flooding
• Keeping emergency phone numbers handy
• Familiarizing yourself with your municipality's Emergency Preparedness Plan

 
The RVCA watershed conditions statement is in effect until Monday April 29 and is expected to be updated at that time.