Flood warning and watch messages updated as water levels recede in Rideau Valley Watershed

The previous flood warning and watch messages issued on April 6th and 8th, 2023 have been updated to reflect current conditions in the Rideau Valley Watershed.

According to the latest update, rainfall amounts between 40 and 70 mm on April 5th resulted in increased water levels and flows across the watershed, causing flood conditions in many low-lying areas adjacent to several rivers, lakes, creeks, and ditches. Since then, water levels have peaked and are receding in most areas, except for a few.

The short-term weather forecast indicates no precipitation for the next four days, and temperatures are expected to remain above zero each day with high temperatures in the double digits. However, some snow remains within the City of Ottawa and the Tay River watershed, which is expected to melt over the next few days and have minimal impact on water levels.

A flood warning remains in effect for properties around Bob’s Lake and Christie Lake in the Tay River Watershed. Parks Canada staff are closely monitoring the water levels in both lakes, and operations at the Bolingbroke Dam will take place as required to balance the levels.

The flood warning previously issued for properties around the smaller creeks and streams in the lower Rideau Valley Watershed, including low-lying roads and waterfront properties adjacent to Stevens Creek (near North Gower), and any connected creeks or ditches have been terminated. Also, the Rideau River between Becketts Landing and Manotick, including Kemptville Creek, is no longer under flood warning.

However, a flood watch remains in effect for properties around Big Rideau Lake. With the elevated conditions, there is the potential for further impacts if significant additional rain were to occur across the watershed.

Due to the presence of ice cover on the lakes mentioned above and the anticipated water level increases, there is a concern for shoreline damage due to large pieces of ice becoming mobile. The ice cover on lakes, ditches, local streams, and rivers will continue to be unstable, so extreme caution should be exercised when near local water bodies. Residents are advised to inform their children of the risks and provide appropriate supervision.

As temperatures continue to rise, the potential for ice jams remains high in some local streams and rivers, as flows could quickly increase before the ice can melt. Residents are advised to monitor their local river closely for signs of ice jams as spring progresses.

Flooding along roadways are also a concern due to current snow/ice buildup on roadside ditches.

Residents in flood-prone or low-lying areas that are historically susceptible to flooding should take necessary precautions to protect their property, such as ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition, and have a backwater valve, securing items that might float away as flows increase, removing valuable items from basements or lower floors that could be subject to flooding, and familiarizing themselves with their municipality’s Emergency Preparedness Plan.

This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Tuesday, April 18, 2023, and may be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.