MVCA - Water Safety Statement, stay clear of ice covered waterways

March 10, 2021 —With above seasonal daytime temperatures and several millimetres of rain forecasted over the next few days, the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) is reminding residents that no ice is safe ice.  Runoff amounts may result in higher water levels in area creeks and streams and along roadside ditches.
 
Ice thickness can change drastically due to increased flows and rising temperatures.  The shoreline adjacent to lakes, rivers and creeks is very slippery and poses a serious hazard.  Falling into open water could result in hypothermia or drowning.
 
The MVCA reminds the public to exercise extreme caution around all water bodies:

• The public and pets should stay off all frozen water bodies.
• Parents are urged to remind children about the dangers of playing on or near ice covered surfaces and open water.

No flooding is anticipated at this time, although, rainfall can cause ice jams to occur along the river.  This can cause water levels to rise rapidly without warning.  Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain a 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 backwater valves.
• Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 m from any structure.
• Removing or securing items that might float away as flows increase.

 
Please note that the MVCA does not monitor ice conditions.  The MVCA’s Flood Forecasting and Warning program monitors weather conditions and snowpack, estimates high water conditions and issues watershed conditions messages.
 
This message will be in effect until (or updated before) Wednesday March 31, 2021 at 4:30 pm.

www.mvc.on.ca