April 1, 2016
1491
Both the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) and the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) have extended their flood watch conditions to Monday, April 4.
Water levels in most watercourses had not yet crested Friday morning, said the SVCA. It expects that rivers and streams in the Saugeen Watershed will be peaking late Friday; however, the public is advised that water levels for most of the main watercourses are higher than occurred Tuesday, particularly in Hanover and Paisley and downstream.
The SVCA Watershed received significant rainfall of about 25-70 millimetres (mm) Thursday, in addition to the 25-50 mm Monday. This rain on top of already-saturated ground conditions resulted in rapid run-off into the river system.
Flooding in a field east of Highway 21, north of Tiverton, Friday afternoon; photos by Liz Dadson
In the community of Williamsford, flooding from the North Saugeen River has resulted in the closure of Highway 6. Elsewhere, flooding is occurring in the traditional low-lying floodplain areas. Municipal staff should continue to monitor typical problem areas and roads.
The SVCA has extended its flood watch condition to Monday, April 4, at 11 a.m.
Continuing high water levels are a safety risk and so the public is again advised to stay away from all watercourses.
The SVCA will continue to closely monitor river flow and weather conditions.
Meanwhile, the MVCA also maintains its flood watch after 30-65 mm of rain across the watersheds in the past 24 hours. With saturated soil conditions and river flows already running high from the rain that fell earlier this week, this precipitation has quickly entered the river systems resulting in elevated levels.
Municipal staff are asked to monitor local problem areas and be prepared for closures of low-lying roads.
Residents are reminded to stay away from all watercourses. Cold water temperatures combined with very fast flows have created hazardous conditions near all waterways. Residents are also reminded to never attempt to drive through flooded areas.
Flows are expected to remain high for the next several days. This message is in effect until Monday, April 4, at 4 p.m., unless changing conditions warrant updating it sooner.
A flood watch also remains in place specifically for the Lucknow area. The MVCA is continuing to monitor weather forecasts and river flows.
Huron-Kinloss Township reported the following roads closed Friday:
The Grey Bruce Health Unit is also raising concerns about potential health risks for some local residents due to the high water and flooding.
If your well has been flooded, is close to floodwater, if you obtain drinking water from a river or lake, and especially if you have noticed a change in the appearance or smell of your drinking water, it may been contaminated. Left untreated, contaminated water can be a health risk and should not be consumed.
If you think your private water supply may be contaminated, you should use an alternative supply, such as bottled water, or boiling water for one minute before consumption, use in food preparation, brushing teeth, etc.
There are health risks to avoid if your home has been flooded. Before starting clean up, ensure that your home is safe from structural defects and have a certified technician check electrical or gas services. Food that has been in contact with floodwater will be contaminated and should be discarded.
You will need to thoroughly clean, disinfect and dry affected areas of the house. Objects or materials that cannot be adequately cleaned may need to be discarded.
Ensure that your water supply is safe, that your sewage system is working correctly and that any affected appliances are inspected and safe.
For more information on health risks associated with flooding, contact the health unit at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 or check the website at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca
Written ByLiz Dadson is the founder and editor of the Kincardine Record and has been in the news business since 1986.
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