Significant Rain Expected to Increase Water Levels Throughout the Rideau Valley

Ottawa – The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is issuing a WATER SAFETY message for the entire Rideau Valley Watershed.

A low-pressure system is expected to bring widespread rain to the region, with between 20mm and 40mm expected throughout Saturday and Sunday. Snow conditions in the Rideau Valley watershed are largely depleted, but flows and water levels remain elevated from recent melt and rainfall events.

While significant flooding is not anticipated at this time, water levels and flows in all waterways are expected to increase and may exceed their banks along smaller tributaries and streams. Residents in these regions are advised to take precautionary measures to protect their property, including:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve
• Ensuring easy access to a portable backup generator and pump
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 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

Extreme caution should be exercised by everyone when near local waterbodies. Parents should inform their children of the risks and provide appropriate supervision. Pets should be leashed near all bodies of water.

This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Friday, March 15, 2024, at 5 PM and will be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.