April 29, 2019 - Unlike the Ottawa River Watershed which is currently experiencing historic high water conditions, the water levels and flows in the Rideau Valley Watershed are declining and approaching seasonal levels in all waterways except for Bobs Lake and Christie Lake.
The current forecast indicates between 35 mm and 50 mm of rain could fall later this week. This rainfall will have limited impact within the watershed except for Bobs Lake and Christie Lake where levels will likely increase. Parks Canada staff are closely monitoring the water levels in these lakes, and operations at the Bolingbroke Dam will take place as required, to balance the levels in Bobs Lake and Christie Lake.
Based on the above, the FLOOD WATCH is being maintained for properties around Bob’s Lake and Christie Lake.
Extreme caution should be exercised by everyone when near local waterbodies. Parents should inform their children of the risks and provide appropriate supervision.
Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas, historically susceptible to flooding, should continue to 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 Monday May 6, 2019 and will be updated at that time unless the forecast or conditions change.
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More Information:
Brian Stratton, RVCA Manager Engineering Services
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-6804, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1141
or cell 613-799-9423
Media Enquiries:
Diane Downey, RVCA Director of Communications and Outreach
Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
613-692-3571, 1-800-267-3504 ext. 1126
or cell 613-698-9453
"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 area watercourses.
