Flood Watch Statement – Mississippi Valley Watershed – April 13, 2026

From the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority

A Flood Watch Statement indicates that flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood prone areas should prepare.

This is an update to the Flood Outlook Statement for the Mississippi River watershed issued April 8, 2026.

Weather forecast:

Mild temperatures and rain are expected to continue over the next two-week period. Air temperatures will remain consistently above freezing with consecutive days with daytime highs above 15°C forecast for this week. Widespread rainfall is also anticipated, with total accumulations of approximately 30–60 mm over this period.

Watershed conditions: 

Recent low-pressure systems have brought mild temperatures and rainfall across the watershed, accelerating remaining snowmelt and increasing runoff. Water levels and flows are now elevated across the system and continue to rise along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Snowpack remains in the upper watershed, which—combined with any additional forecasted rainfall—may further increase flows into the system. Ground conditions are saturated, which will limit infiltration and increase runoff.

Risks:

Rivers and streams may experience higher water levels, fast flowing water and slippery or unstable banks. Lake and river ice may weaken, mobilize, and elevate the risk for localized ice jam formation. Roads, driveways, and properties in flood-prone areas could be impacted with localized ponding or minor flooding.

Actions:

Residents are advised to exercise caution when near rivers, streams, and other waterbodies due to high flows and slippery conditions. Parents are encouraged to remind children about these dangers and provide appropriate supervision.

Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain close watch on water levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve.
• Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 metres from any structure.
• Removing or securing items that might float away if flows increase.
• Removing valuable items from basements or lower floors that could be subject to flooding.
• Keeping emergency phone numbers handy.
• Familiarizing yourself with your municipality’s emergency preparedness plan: Mississippi Mills Emergency Response Plan.

Duration:

This message is in effect until April 21, 2026 or until an update has been issued.

For more information: 

Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact: MVCA Water Management, 613-253-0006 ext. 248, water-management@mvc.on.ca.