MVCA Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook – March 18, 2025
SUBMITTED
From the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority
A Flood Outlook Statement is to provide early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.
Weather forecast: Warmer temperatures and rainfall are expected over the next couple of days. Temperatures are expected to start rising today and last until Thursday, March 20, with daily highs reaching 15 – 17°C. Precipitation is also expected on Thursday, with forecasts estimating 10 – 15 mm of rainfall.
Watershed conditions: Snowmelt is expected to continue due to warmer temperatures, combined with anticipated rainfall. This will increase levels and flows in water bodies throughout the watershed. The degree of increase will depend on actual precipitation and temperatures. Unstable ice conditions may also be present, which can lead to ice jams.
Risks: Larger rivers such as the Clyde, Fall and Mississippi Rivers will see a significant increase in flows and water levels as snowmelt continues to occur. Levels are expected to increase to springtime elevations on both Dalhousie and Mississippi Lakes. Additionally, these conditions elevate the risk for ice buildup.
Flows along the Carp and Indian Rivers and smaller watercourses have peaked from the snowmelt and rainfall over the weekend. Forecasted rainfall and any remnants of snowpack could cause a secondary peak.
Actions: Residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution near all water bodies due to high flows and slippery conditions. Parents are encouraged to remind children about these dangers and provide appropriate supervision.
Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain close watch on water levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:
- Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve.
- Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
- Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 metres from any structure.
- Removing or securing items that might float away if 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.
Duration: This message is in effect until 12 pm March 24, 2025 or until an update has been issued.
For more information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels.
