Displaying items by tag: spring freshet

(WCS – R02/2023)

RIDEAU VALLEY, March 9, 2023 – The winter of 2022-23 is quickly coming to an end, and RVCA’s Flood Forecasting team is working closely with its municipal and agency partners to prepare for potential spring flooding. As discussed below, it is important to be prepared for possible flood conditions over the next few weeks as spring returns to the Rideau Valley watershed.

Current conditions:

• This winter has been unusually mild with some rain events and approximately 300 cm of snow fallen to date in the Ottawa area. The snowpack varies throughout the Rideau Valley Watershed, but in general the water content in the snow is near average for the upper and middle parts of the watershed and above average for the lower part of the watershed (Ottawa area).
• Due to the mild weather and rain throughout the winter, water levels on some upper watershed lakes are presently above normal for this time of year (i.e., Wolfe & Christie Lakes). Parks Canada staff who manage water levels for the Rideau Canal will closely monitor these water levels and have indicated that the levels are expected to rise in the upper watershed lakes as the snowpack begins to melt. 
• The current short-term forecast indicates limited precipitation and seasonal temperatures (slightly above zero temperatures during the day and below zero at night); however, we know the daily temperature will begin to increase and there will likely be some rain as we move through March.
• City of Ottawa crews have begun the annual ice removal program on the Rideau River between Rideau Falls and Bronson Avenue. Crews will work to keep the ice from reforming until the spring freshet occurs (for more information: City of Ottawa’s information line at 311).

What does this mean for flood potential?

• Based solely on the fact we have above-average snow water content and above-normal water levels in some upper watershed lakes, there is potential for above-average flooding this spring across the Rideau Valley Watershed, especially in low lying areas which have flooded in the past. 
• Precipitation and temperature are two other key factors influencing actual flood conditions as we move through March and into April, which staff will monitor closely.
• The short-term forecast suggests a slow melt with little precipitation, which is favourable for limited flooding for at least the first half of March.

With changing levels expected over the coming weeks, ice cover on lakes, ditches, local streams and rivers will continue to be unstable. Extreme caution should be exercised by everyone when near local waterbodies. Parents should inform their children of the risks and provide appropriate supervision. 

As the temperatures start to warm up, ice jams are possible in local streams and rivers, as flows could quickly increase before the ice can melt. Residents are advised to monitor their local waterbody closely for signs of ice jams as spring progresses. RVCA staff will be monitoring conditions, but we always welcome observations from watershed residents.

Potential flooding along roadways is also a concern due to current snow/ice buildup on roadside ditches and some roads.

Residents in flood-prone or low-lying areas 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

More information including our Flood Contingency Plan and real-time water level and stream flow data can be found atwww.rvca.ca/watershed-conditions.

This watershed conditions statement is in effect until March 24, 2023 at 5 p.m. and may be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.

-end-

More Information:

Contact: Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141

www.rvca.ca/watershed-conditions

"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed 
created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and
natural resource conservation."

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.

(WCS – R03/2023)

RIDEAU VALLEY, March 23, 2023 – A cool March combined with above-average snowfall amounts this winter means the snowpack is higher than average for this time of year across much of the Rideau Valley Watershed. This creates potential for above-average flooding in all low-lying areas adjacent to any rivers, creeks or ditches.

The short-term weather forecast indicates rain amounts of 15-25 mm on Thurs. March 23 with temperatures well above zero, and cooler temperatures on Friday. Another precipitation event is forecast for Saturday and Sunday, but it’s unclear how much precipitation will fall, and if it will come as rain, freezing rain or snow.  

Based on the above forecast, water levels and flows are expected to increase in all waterways in the Rideau Valley Watershed, beginning on Thursday and continuing throughout the weekend and next week. The degree of increase will depend on actual precipitation and temperatures over this period. If significant rain falls over the weekend, then flooding could occur on the smaller creeks and streams in the Rideau Valley Watershed. This would include Stevens Creek and any connected creeks or ditches (near North Gower) which are highly susceptible to spring flooding. This short-term forecast does not suggest flooding along the larger rivers (Rideau River), however there is potential for this in late March or early April depending on weather.

Water levels in upper watershed lakes are presently near normal for this time of year. Parks Canada staff who manage water levels for the Rideau Canal will closely monitor these water levels and have indicated that the levels are expected to rise as the snowpack begins to melt. 

City of Ottawa crews continue their annual ice removal program on the Rideau River between Rideau Falls and Bronson Avenue. City crews are busy with ice breaking activities (for more information: City of Ottawa information at 311).

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 Friday, March 31, 2023 and may be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.

-end- 

More Information:

Contact: Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141

www.rvca.ca/watershed-conditions

"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed 
created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and
natural resource conservation."

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.

(WCS – R04/2023)

RIDEAU VALLEY, March 30, 2023 – A Flood Watch has been issued for the Rideau Valley as a rainy weekend mixes with the residual snowpack still intact in some areas after a cool March. Potential flooding could begin to impact low-lying areas as early as Saturday and continue throughout next week.

Since early March, we have experienced a very gradual snow melt with some precipitation across the Rideau Valley Watershed.  As such, snow remains in some parts of our watershed, most prominently in the City of Ottawa and the Tay River watershed, which indicates a potential for flooding in low-lying areas adjacent to any rivers, creeks or ditches.

The short-term weather forecast indicates rain amounts of 20-30 mm and mild temperatures on Saturday April 1, with cooler temperatures on Sunday. The longer-term forecast indicates milder temperatures throughout next week with potential rain. 

Based on the above forecast, water levels and flows are expected to increase in all waterways in the Rideau Valley Watershed, beginning on Saturday and continuing throughout next week. The degree of increase will depend on precipitation amounts and temperatures, and may result in flooding within the following areas:

• Smaller creeks and streams in the lower Rideau Valley Watershed, including in the City of Ottawa. This includes low-lying roads and waterfront properties adjacent to Stevens Creek and any connected creeks or ditches (near North Gower), and agricultural lands along Cranberry Creek.
• The Rideau River near Becketts Landing and Kemptville Creek, particularly the areas around Hilly Lane, Rideau Glen Lane, Golf Course Lane, and Barts Lane. Access concerns may arise for Cedar Beach Lane.
• The Rideau River near Kars, particularly the areas around Lorne Bridge Road and Rideau Street South.

With the elevated conditions, potential exists for further impacts if significant additional rain were to occur before the water levels and flows begin to recede.

Water levels in upper watershed lakes are presently near normal for this time of year. Parks Canada staff who manage water levels for the Rideau Canal will closely monitor these water levels and have indicated that the levels are expected to rise as the snowpack continues to melt. 

City of Ottawa crews have completed their annual ice removal program on the Rideau River between Rideau Falls and Bronson Avenue. 

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 11, 2023 and may be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.

- end - 

More Information:

Contact: Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141

www.rvca.ca/watershed-conditions

"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed 
created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and
natural resource conservation."

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.

(WCS - 06/2023)

April 8, 2023 – The Flood Warning and Flood Watch issued on April 6, 2023 remains in effect for the Rideau Valley watershed. Flood conditions are present in many low-lying areas adjacent to several rivers, lakes, creeks and ditches. Additional areas have the potential to flood next week, as the remaining snow within the City of Ottawa and the Tay River watershed is expected to finish melting due to multiple days with high temperatures in the double digits.

The short-term weather forecast indicates no precipitation for next few days. Staring on Monday April 10, 2023, temperatures will remain above zero all day with high temperatures in the double digits.

Based on the above, water levels and flows are generally expected to either remain elevated or increase in all waterways in the Rideau Valley Watershed throughout next week. Some specific areas of concern are highlighted below:

A FLOOD WARNING remains for the following areas:

• Properties around Bob’s Lake, Christie Lake and Tay River in the upper Rideau Valley 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.
• Flooding impacts are occurring and expected to continue in the following areas:
  • 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. Although water levels have receded, some risk of further increase exists with the remaining snowpack.
  • The Rideau River between Becketts Landing and Manotick, including Kemptville Creek. The water levels throughout this reach are expected to remain high for at least the next week.

A FLOOD WATCH remains for the following areas:

• Properties around Big Rideau Lake, Upper Rideau Lake, and along the Rideau River from Smiths Falls through Burritts Rapids.
• Low-lying properties (close to Rideau River) on Rideau River Lane and the community of Rideau Gardens. Water levels in this area will remain elevated for at least the next week and may increase somewhat as the snowmelt continues upstream.

With the elevated conditions, potential exists for further impacts if significant additional rain were to occur before the water levels and flows begin to recede.

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 Friday, April 14, 2023 and may be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.

- end - 

More Information:

Contact: Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141

www.rvca.ca/watershed-conditions

"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed 
created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and
natural resource conservation."

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.

(WCS - 07/2023)

April 11, 2023 – The previous Flood Warning and Flood Watch messages issued on April 6th and 8^th, 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, 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.

- end - 

More Information:

Contact: Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141

www.rvca.ca/watershed-conditions

"Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is a partnership of municipalities within the Rideau Valley watershed 
created under the Conservation Authorities Act to deliver a range of programs in watershed management and
natural resource conservation."

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.