With the recent rise of the Ottawa River and Environment Canada’s special weather statement for up to 50 mm of rain on Friday and Saturday, the City is advising residents to take necessary precautions for any potential flooding in the low lying areas adjacent to the river.
The two main areas currently experiencing flooding are Constance Bay and the Boise Street and Leo Lane area of Cumberland.
Residents in these areas can reduce flood damage by taking these preventative steps:
- Move valuables and important documents out of the basement
- Ensure sump pumps and foundation drains are connected and functioning properly
- Ensure downspouts or water run-off is flowing to water drainage systems.
- Use sandbags – sand and bags are available for free. Locations are listed on the City of Ottawa website.
More information on preventing flooding, including basement flooding, is available on the City of Ottawa website.
The City is working closely with the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board to monitor the situation throughout the weekend.
Residents are reminded of the following safety tips
- Avoid and keep children and pets away from open water, ditches, ravines, culverts and escarpments
- Keep children away from wading pools in parks near the Ottawa River? Or just wading pools, period?. (The higher water levels can result in backups in outdoor wading pools – resulting in the collection of water which cannot be drained.)
The City will continue to provide updates on ottawa.ca, Twitter or call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401).
Also, check local weather forecasts and news for up-to-date broadcasts.