Residents urged to take caution in flood conditions

The City of Greater Sudbury is once again reminding residents to be prepared for potential heavy rainfall this weekend. 

Current forecasts from Environment Canada indicate that very heavy rain will be received starting Saturday and into Monday. The possibility of thunderstorms is also contained in the current forecasts. The most recent weather forecasts also indicate that some additional rain is expected during the upcoming week.

The heavy rain forecast over the next 24 to 36 hours, with more rain possible next week, will significantly increase water levels and flows. Smaller watercourses like the Whitson River, Junction Creek, Romford Creek and many others will rise rapidly and some flooding may be experienced in low-lying, known hazard areas. The larger river systems, namely the Vermilion, Wanapitei and Onaping, should also be very closely monitored as the levels and flows will increase.

Children and adults alike are reminded to stay away from fast-flowing waters, as they may constitute a safety hazard.

Overland flooding can occur when rainfall or snowmelt exceeds the capacity of underground pipes, or when a rainstorm exceeds the capacity of overland flow routes — streets, ditches, swales and parks designed to carry flood water away from urban areas. Flood water can enter homes through windows, doors, vents and other openings.

Citizens are reminded there are things they can do to reduce the potential of basement flooding before a flood:
- Improve outdoor drainage around your home.
- Avoid plugging or damaging the sewer lines on your property.
- Disconnect downspouts, sump pumps and weeping tile from sanitary sewers.
- Identify and seal flood entry points.
- Keep storm sewer grates clear.
- Review your insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage.
- Maintain a list of household inventory in the event of loss.
- Reduce home water use during heavy rainfall.

Should a flood occur, residents are advised to:
- Protect themselves from electrical shock.
- Call their local utilities to turn off hydro and gas.
- If there is sewage involved, call a licensed plumber.
- Not use upstairs toilets or sinks.

Citizens are reminded that 9-1-1 should only be dialed to report a crime in progress or a life-threatening emergency situation. Reports of flooding should be directed to the City of Greater Sudbury call centre at 3-1-1. For more information on how to prepare for heavy rainfall, visit www.greatersudbury.ca search: emergency preparedness

The Nickel District Conservation Authority and the City of Greater Sudbury are monitoring weather conditions. "Public safety is our priority," the city stated in a press release.