WHITEWATER REGION — The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) Pembroke District issued an update on April 14, extending the Watershed Conditions Statement, Water Safety that is in effect in the District until Wednesday, April 22. The MNRF says lake and river levels and flows continue to be moderately elevated but are still within normal ranges for this time of year. Continued risks include degradation of ice and ice jam related flooding from increasing water levels and flows, fast moving cold water with rapidly changing conditions and flooding of low-lying areas with a history of flooding.
MNRF is advising that residents in Renfrew County should keep a close watch on conditions, regularly check for updated messages and exercise caution near fast-moving rivers and streams. Residents who have a historic susceptibility to flooding should take appropriate precautions to protect their property, such as ensuring sump pumps are functioning and securing items that may float away as water levels rise and all downspouts are attached properly and cleared of any potential obstructions.
The Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board (ORRPB) issued a statement on April 9, cautioning that levels and flows on the Ottawa River continue to rise gradually due to on-going snowmelt in the central and northern portions of the basin. The ORRPB and Ontario Power Generation (OPG) continue to make improvements to how information is delivered including website improvements and you should check their websites regularly during the Spring Freshet period to keep yourself updated and prepared.
The Township of Whitewater Region’s Municipal Emergency Control Group, comprised of Mayor Mike Moore, Reeve Cathy Regier, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Robert Tremblay and staff from key areas, meet regularly by teleconference to review the current situation involving flooding and novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
The Township is monitoring the situation closely and updates are being shared between the County, MNRF and operators daily and spring freshet calls are being held to share information with the larger group as needed. Additional information will be distributed, when it becomes available. For safety, all residents should monitor weather conditions, check for updated messages, and exercise caution near fast-moving water.
Residents should take appropriate precautions to protect their property, such as ensuring sump pumps are functioning, securing items which may float away, and all downspouts are attached properly and cleared of any potential obstructions. The Township has sandbags available and these can be obtained by contacting Lane Cleroux, Manager of Public Works, by email at [email protected] or by phone at 613-646-2282 extension 128.
