MVCA Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety – March 3, 2025

From Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority

A Water Safety Statement is to provide notice of high flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.

Weather forecast: Warm temperatures combined with significant rainfall is expected over the next few days. Temperatures are expected to rise on Tuesday, March 4 and last until Friday, March 7, with daily highs reaching 5°C. Widespread precipitation is also expected during this period, with forecasts estimating 20 – 25 mm of rainfall.

Watershed conditions: Runoff amounts may result in higher water levels in area creeks and streams and along roadside ditches. Unstable ice conditions may also be present, which can lead to ice jams.

Risks: 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.

Actions: No flooding is anticipated at this time, although, rainfall can cause ice jams to occur along smaller rivers and creeks. This can cause water levels to rise rapidly without warning. Residents are reminded that no ice is safe ice and 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.
• Keeping emergency phone numbers handy.
• Familiarizing yourself with your municipality’s emergency preparedness plan.

This message is in effect until March 31, 2025 or until an update has been issued.

For more information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels.