FLOOD OUTLOOK UPDATE #1 - Water Levels Remain Elevated in Upper Watershed

(WCS – R07/2024) - 

A Flood Outlook Statement is being maintained for the Upper Rideau Valley Watershed.

Since early April, the Upper Rideau Valley Watershed near Bobs and Christie Lakes and the Tay River has received just over 100mm of rainfall. The weather forecast indicates another 15 to 20mm of precipitation for the next week. This above-average precipitation has resulted in increased water levels in Bobs and Christie Lakes.

Based on the above, a FLOOD OUTLOOK is being maintained for the properties around Bobs and Christie Lakes in the Upper Rideau Valley Watershed. The water levels are expected to remain elevated and may result in flooding for low-lying areas if any significant rainfall events should occur in the coming week(s). Parks Canada staff are closely monitoring the water levels in Bobs Lake and Christie Lake. Operations at the Bolingbroke Dam will take place as required to balance the levels in Bobs Lake and Christie Lake.  

Residents in low-lying areas near Bobs and Christie Lakes 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

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.

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, May 6, 2024 at 5 PM unless the forecast or conditions change.

"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."

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

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