Flood warning in effect for Huron-Kinloss; residents urged to stay home
The Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) has
issued a Flood Warning for the Nine Mile River watershed, including Lucknow and surrounding areas in the Township of Huron-Kinloss.
Flooding is imminent or already occurring, following a band of heavy thunderstorms early Wednesday morning (March 11) that delivered 40–60 millimetres (mm) of rainfall between Goderich and Lucknow. Head-water areas around Lucknow are currently at flood stage.
Residents in low-lying areas of Lucknow should monitor conditions closely and be prepared for possible flooding. Rural roads are at high risk of wash-outs, and fast-moving water and flooded roadways may create hazardous conditions.
Areas downstream of Lucknow may experience flooding greater than observed during the 2008 and 2018 events. Smaller streams, shoreline gullies, and municipal drains across the township may flood or experience wash-outs due to fast-moving water and erosion. Highway 21 is closed between Amberley Road and Blyth Road, due to flooding.
Localized flooding has been reported in several areas of Huron-Kinloss. Road conditions may change quickly, and some rural roads are at high risk of wash-outs. For your safety, the township is encouraging residents to avoid non-essential travel today.
If you must travel,
check Municipal 511 for real-time road closures and conditions.
Never drive through floodwaters. Even shallow water can hide dangerous road damage or strong currents.
Snowmelt, heavy rain, and warmer temperatures can cause water levels and ice conditions to change quickly. Please keep these safety tips in mind:
- Stay back from river banks and shorelines. Saturated ground and erosion can make edges unstable.
- Keep children and pets a safe distance away from rivers, streams, and drainage areas.
- Avoid all ice activities. Melting ice can weaken from underneath and may not be visible.
- Never walk or drive through flooded or fast-moving water. It may be deeper or more dangerous than it appears.
- Secure outdoor items if you live near water or in a flood-plain area, including patio furniture and garbage bins, to prevent loose items from creating blockages downstream.
- Call 911 in an emergency. Do not attempt rescue from icy or fast-moving water on your own.
Residents may experience increased run-off around foundations. A few quick steps can help reduce the chance of water entering basements:
- Check your sump pump to ensure it’s working properly. Consider a battery back-up in case of power outages.
- Clear basement drains to help water move away efficiently.
- Shovel snow away from your foundation — even three to five feet of clearance helps reduce seepage.
- Extend downspouts two metres (six feet) to direct water away from basement walls.
- Move valuables, electronics, or stored items to higher levels if your basement is prone to water entry.
More guidance on preparing your home for spring flooding is available through the
Government of Canada’s flood-readiness resources.
The
MVCA Flood Warning for the Nine Mile River watershed remains in effect until 10 a.m., Thursday, March 12, unless updated.
The
Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority Flood Watch issued Tuesday, March 10, for Huron-Kinloss, also remains in place due to ongoing snowmelt, high flows, and additional rainfall in the forecast. This watch is valid until Monday, March 16, unless conditions change.
The township will continue to monitor conditions closely throughout the day and will provide further updates as new information becomes available. Updated information will be posted as a
News Item on the Township website and shared on the
Township of Huron-Kinloss Facebook page.
Residents can also follow the conservation authorities for direct watershed updates:
Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA)
Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA)
Bruce County is also reporting localized flooding on county roads, due to the heavy rain and swiftly-melting snowpack.
With current and forecasted weather conditions, including an Orange Level Rainfall Warning from Environment Canada, the county encourages those travelling to do the following:
- Slow down.
- Activate your entire lighting system.
- Be prepared for possible detours due to road closures.
- Use extreme caution if you come across flooded roadways while travelling.
- Be aware that fast-moving and deep water may also sweep vehicles off roadways.
- The county does not recommend crossing flooded sections of a road as the soil underneath may be saturated and become unstable.
The county's operations crews are responding to areas with localized flooding affecting road conditions, and are working closely with the OPP to address issues as they arise.
Your patience and co-operation are appreciated.
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