WHITEWATER REGION — The Township of Whitewater Region has been preparing for the spring melt, along with monitoring and preparing for flooding.
Yesterday, the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board (ORRPB) issued a news update which stated, “With recent warming temperatures, the spring thaw continues and is causing water levels and flows on the Ottawa River to increase from Mattawa down to the Montreal region. Increases in flows and levels are expected to continue over the next few days and may cause minor flooding in low-lying areas. Low-lying areas are those that are flooded regularly during the spring freshet period.”
The MNRF issued a Watershed Conditions Statement of Water Safety for Renfrew County on March 30 and it has been extended to Tuesday, April 14. This type of statement “indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers and swimmers but flooding is not expected”. At this time there is no indication that flooding will occur, and the bulletin was issued to ensure that everyone stays safe around rivers and streams.
As the 2020 Spring Freshet approaches, the Township of Whitewater Region suggests residents consult two major resources, the ORRPB and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF). In addition, the Township said it continues flooding preparations. This includes the availability of sand bags. A preparedness open house was being planned for mid-April in Westmeath with agency partners, but dates may change due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents can visit the ORRPB online at www.ottawariver.ca. The MNRF resource can be found online at www.gisapplication.lrc.gov.on.ca/webapps/flood. The Township’s Municipal Emergency Control Group is comprised of Mayor Mike Moore, Reeve Cathy Regier, Chief Administrative Officer Robert Tremblay and staff from key areas, meet regularly to review the current situation involving COVID-19 and Flooding.
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.
