Mississippi Valley Conservation is issuing a FLOOD WARNING for DALHOUSIE LAKE and an update to the last advisory for all other watercourses across the Mississippi Valley watershed and the Carp River.

Water levels on Dalhousie Lake are steadily rising and are expected to increase another 15 to 25 cm (an elevation of 157.40 m to 157.55 m) over the next week before peaking.

Flows along the major tributaries of the Mississippi River, the Clyde and Fall rivers, are continuing to increase and are not expected to peak for at least the next 5 days based on current conditions and the long range forecast for precipitation and air temperatures. Residents along the Clyde River can expect levels to continue to increase through the weekend before peaking next week. Communities along the Clyde River between Cedardale and Lanark are at risk of significant flooding over the next week and residents are advised to take the necessary precautions to protect their property.

Residents along the Mississippi River between Dalhousie Lake and Mississippi Lake are advised to keep a close watch on the river as ice jams and flooding are a significant threat over the next week. Water levels on Mississippi Lake are also steadily increasing and are expected to increase by 50 to 65 cm ( elevation of 135.35 m to 135.50 m) over the next week to 10 days before peaking. Water levels on the Mississippi River between Carleton Place and Pakenham are expected to continue to increase for at least the next 2 weeks however, conditions are not expected to be as severe as 1998 without significant rainfall within that timeframe.

The potential for significant flooding across the Mississippi River watershed remains high and any depending on rainfall received over the next 3 to 4 week period.

Flows have stabilized on the Carp River and are expected to recede over the next few days. Smaller tributaries such as Cody Creek, Poole Creek and Indian Creek have also peaked and are expected to recede quickly.

MVC reminds the public that spring water conditions pose a serious threat. Water levels can rise in a short period of time and near freezing water temperatures can quickly produce hypothermia. Parents are reminded to warn children to stay away from watercourses and ditches during this time. At this time of year, it is recommended that all persons stay off ice covered bodies of water.

MVC’s flood forecasting and warning program includes: monitoring weather conditions, measuring water content of snowpack, estimating expected river flows and water levels and issuing flood advisories or warnings as required. In a flood situation, the conservation authority provides early warning and continuous monitoring and analysis through the event to municipal and provincial emergency response personnel regarding the expected severity and duration of the event.