WEST CARLETON — The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) is not expecting any flooding this week, but says conditions still exist  for above average flooding in West Carleton this spring.

“Water content in the snow pack remains well above average for this time of year across the Mississippi Valley watershed,” the MVCA released in a statement today (March 19). “This could potentially lead to above average flooding this spring. Although the recent sunny weather has consolidated the snow pack, very little runoff has been observed at this point. The seven-day forecast suggests temperatures will continue with single digit highs and below zero conditions at night with very little precipitation expected.”

Based on that, flows in ditches and smaller creeks are expected to begin to increase, however no significant flooding is anticipated in the next week. Ponding may be a significant issue around the watershed. The potential for ice jams remains high.

Parents are encouraged to remind their children about the dangers of playing on or near ice covered surfaces or fast flowing water in ditches and smaller creeks. They are also reminded to keep their pets away from the same areas.

• 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 on it
• Portable backup generator and pump
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least three metres from the dwelling
• Removing or securing items that might float away as flows increase
• Removing valuable items from basements or lower floors that could be subject to flooding
• Keep emergency phone numbers handy
• Familiarize yourself with your municipality’s emergency preparedness plan

Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca. Updates to the watershed conditions will be issued as required. This watershed conditions statement is in effect until March 27, and will be updated at that time unless the forecasts change.

The MVCA flood forecasting and warning program staff monitors weather conditions, snowpack water content, operates dams to help mitigate flooding, estimates expected river flows and water levels and issues flood advisories or warnings as required. MVCA provides early warning and continuous monitoring to municipal and provincial emergency response personnel through a flood event.