RVCA - Watershed Conditions Statement - April 11, 2023

Flood Warning & Flood Watch – Update #2

Water Levels Now Declining Across Rideau Valley Watershed Except in Some Upper Watershed Lakes

April 11, 2023

The previous Flood Warning and Flood Watch messages issued on April 6th and 8th, 2023 are being updated to reflect current conditions.

Rainfall amounts between 40 and 70 mm fell across the Rideau Valley Watershed on April 5, 2023, resulting in increased water levels and flows across the watershed which caused flood conditions in many low-lying areas adjacent to several rivers, lakes, creeks and ditches.

Since that time, water levels have peaked and are receding in most areas, except those areas discussed below.

The short-term weather forecast indicates no precipitation for the next four days. Temperatures are forecasted to remain above zero each day with high temperatures in the double digits. Although mostly melted, some snow remains within the City of Ottawa and the Tay River watershed. The remaining snow is expected to melt over next few days, and will have minimal impact on water levels, except for those areas discussed below.
 
A FLOOD WARNING remains for the following areas:

• Properties around Bob’s Lake and Christie Lake in the Tay River Watershed. Parks Canada staff are closely monitoring the water levels in Bobs Lake and Christie Lake, and operations at the Bolingbroke Dam will take place as required, to balance the levels in Bobs Lake and Christie Lake. 

The FLOOD WARNING previously issued for the areas below has been TERMINATED:

• Properties around the smaller creeks and streams in the lower Rideau Valley Watershed, including the low-lying roads and waterfront properties adjacent to Stevens Creek (near North Gower), and any connected creeks or ditches. 
• The Rideau River between Becketts Landing and Manotick, including Kemptville Creek.

A FLOOD WATCH remains for the following areas:

• Properties around Big Rideau Lake

With the elevated conditions, the potential exists for further impacts if significant additional rain were to occur across the watershed.
 
Due to the presence of ice cover on the lakes mentioned above and the anticipated water level increases, there is a concern for shoreline damage due to large pieces of ice becoming mobile. 
 
With changing water levels expected over the coming days, ice cover on lakes, ditches, local streams and rivers will continue to be unstable. Extreme caution should be exercised when near local waterbodies. Parents should inform their children of the risks and provide appropriate supervision.
 
As temperatures continue to rise, the potential for ice jams remains high in some local streams and rivers, as flows could quickly increase before the ice can melt. Residents are advised to monitor their local river closely for signs of ice jams as spring progresses. RVCA staff will be monitoring conditions but we always welcome unique observations from watershed residents.
 
Flooding along roadways is also a concern due to current snow/ice buildup on roadside ditches.

Residents in flood-prone or low-lying areas that are historically susceptible to flooding 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
   

This watershed conditions statement is in effect until Tuesday, April 18, 2023 and may be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.