Flood watch maintained as a mix of rain and melt overburden watershed

While forecasts suggest the snow has finally tapered off allowing the arrival of some warmer spring weather, the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) remains cautious of flooding potential throughout the upper watershed of the Rideau River.

The area, which encompasses Perth and Westport, is experiencing highly saturated soils from a mix of snowmelt and accumulated rain.

Water levels across the region, at places like Bobs Lake and Christie Lake remain elevated and can do little to help accommodate the rain forecasted over the weekend.

According to Environment Canada, the watershed region could experience 10 to 30 mm of rain over the long weekend and an additional seven to 10 mm next week.

The RVCA is maintaining a flood watch for the watershed that has been in place for most of the season.

“Residents are still strongly encouraged to remain vigilant, monitor local conditions, and take necessary steps to protect their properties,” the RVCA said in an update on its website. “Additional rainfall may prolong or exacerbate this elevated state and could result in sustained flooding in low-lying areas.”

With a mixed bag of spring weather over the weekend and into early next week, the Rideau Valley Area could see some reprieve by the end of the week.

According to Environment Canada the Ottawa area is expected to experience temperatures between 16 and 18 C with sun Wednesday through Friday.

In the meantime, there are precautions people can take who live in low-lying areas at risk of flooding.

The RVCA recommends the following:

• ensure sump pumps are clear and in good working condition;
• keep a portable backup generator;
• ensure downspouts are clear;
• secure items that could get swept away;
• remove valuables from basements or lower floors;
• keep emergency phone numbers handy; and
• familiarize yourself with your municipality’s Emergency Preparedness Plan.