POTENTIAL FOR SPRING FLOODING, SAYS RVCA

With the amount of snow on the ground and signs of spring around the corner, the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority is warning of the potential for spring flooding across the watershed.

According to the RVCA'S latest watershed conditions statement issued March 9, about 300 centimetres of snow has fallen in the region over the winter and some water levels at upper watershed lakes, including Christie Lake in Lanark County, "are presently above normal for this time of year."

"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 aboveaverage flooding this spring across the Rideau Valley watershed, especially in low-lying areas which have flooded in the past," noted the statement.

Flooding along roadways is also

a concern because of ice and snow buildup in ditches.

The two factors that will affect this is the temperature and precipitation the area will see, which the RVCA says at this time looks positive, but they will continue to monitor conditions.

"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," according to the statement.

FLOOD PREPARATION TIPS

The RVCA offers residents in flood-prone areas the following tips to prepare for flooding:

• Make sure your sump pumps are in good working condition and have backwater valves;

• Consider installing a batterypowered sump pump in case of a power outage;

• Plan for easy access to a portable backup generator;

• Keep downspouts clear and that the outlet is at least three metres from your home;

• Remove valuable items from the basement;

• Secure items that could float away in the event of flooding;

• Have emergency phone numbers on hand;

• Create evacuation plan and assemble an emergency kit (medication, blankets, clothing, flashlights, etc.); and

• Get to know your local municipality's emergency preparedness plan.