RVCA - Media Release - December 21, 2022

Watershed Conditions Statement

Significant Precipitation Event Will Cause Increased Water Levels Across Rideau Valley Watershed

(WCS – R09/2022)

December 21, 2022 – Caution is advised as a major winter storm makes its way to the Rideau Valley this week. Environment Canada’s short-term weather forecast indicates precipitation will begin as rain or snow late Thursday, Dec. 22 before transitioning to rain on Friday.

Rainfall amounts of up to 40 mm are forecasted for Friday before the temperature drops below zero. Falling temperatures will be accompanied by strong winds along with more snow.
 
Water levels and flows are generally low to average for this time of year across the Rideau Valley Watershed. Although no significant flooding is anticipated, water levels and flows are expected to increase in all waterways in the Rideau Valley Watershed in the coming days.

Residents adjacent to smaller creeks and streams are advised to keep a close watch on water levels and flows and should take the necessary precautions to protect their property, such as:

• Ensuring sump pump is clear, in good working condition and has 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 Monday, Dec. 26, 2022 at 5 PM or until an update has been issued.

More Information:

Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804 or 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141
brian.stratton@mrsourcewater.ca

RVCA Watershed Conditions Statements:

• Water Safety – High flows, unstable 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.

• Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts, calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams and/or lakeshore flooding or erosion.

• Flood Watch – Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individuals in flood prone areas should prepare.

• Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.

Visit www.rvca.ca/watershed-conditions for more information.