MVCA advises Huron-Kinloss to be ready if flooding in Lucknow requires evacuation

The Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) is advising Huron-Kinloss Township to make preparations in the event that a Stage 1 flood progression evacuation is required.

The Lucknow area has received about 50 millimetres (mm) of rain since 8 p.m. Sunday (March 27). This rainfall, in combination with saturated soil conditions, is causing river levels to rise significantly.

As a result, the MVCA has issued a flood watch for Lucknow, as rain continued Monday, changing to snow.

Based on the MVCA stream forecast model, flows are expected to peak late Monday evening and could possibly reach or surpass Stage 1 flood progression levels.

NOTE: The MVCA is not recommending that Stage 1 evacuation take place immediately; instead, MVCA staff is requesting that the township undertake preparations in case evacuation is required.

The MVCA is also closely monitoring conditions in Harriston. This area has received 30-40 mm of rain. MVCA staff is recommending that the Town of Minto make preparations in the event that an evacuation of the trailer park is required.

Again, please note that the MVCA is not recommending the immediate evacuation of the trailer park, but is advising the
municipality to be prepared in case evacuation is needed.

A Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety remains in place for the rest of the Maitland River and Nine Mile River watersheds. The MVCA advises residents to stay well away from all watercourses.

The MVCA will continue to monitor precipitation and river flows closely over the next several hours. This message is in effect until Noon, Tuesday March 29, unless changing conditions warrant updating it sooner. The Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety, issued Sunday, is in place until 4 p.m. Friday April 1, unless changing conditions warrant updating it sooner.