A Flood Watch is in effect for West Nipissing and the surrounding district, issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources – North Bay District.
The region has seen significant rainfall over the past several days, with rain continuing today and more expected on Saturday. Water levels and flows across the district are rising due to rainfall, snowmelt, and runoff. Lake and river ice conditions are deteriorating and are considered unsafe in most areas.
At this time, the Municipality of West Nipissing has not declared an emergency, but remains actively engaged in monitoring conditions and responding as needed. Public Works crews are conducting daily patrols to assess conditions and address problem areas, including road washouts and drainage concerns.
The Municipality reminds residents that driving through flooded or water-covered roads is dangerous and unpredictable. Water levels may be deeper than they appear, and road washouts can occur rapidly. Motorists must respect all road closures and barricades.
The Municipality is not in a position to supply sandbags. Property owners in low-lying or flood-prone areas are advised to take appropriate protective measures, rather than waiting until conditions worsen. Structures such as homes, boathouses, and docks near lakes and rivers or in areas with a history of flooding are at increased risk.
Flood Safety and Preparedness Tips:
- Prepare sandbags if your property is at risk and ensure they are ready for use.
- Ensure downspouts are clear and directed away from foundations.
- Ensure sump pumps are operating properly and consider a backup power source.
- Know how to safely shut off utilities if flooding threatens your property.
- Check backflow valves to help prevent sewer backup.
- Move valuable items and important documents to higher levels.
- Clear snow and ice from around foundations where possible.
- Secure outdoor items that could be displaced by water.
- Protect private wells by ensuring well caps are secure and sealed to help prevent contamination.
- Review insurance coverage for overland flooding.
To report road safety issues or areas affected by or at risk of flooding, please contact us by telephone at 705-753-2250 or by email at support@westnipissing.ca. For after-hours urgent matters, call 705-753-1170.In the event of an emergency, call 911.
Updates, including flood-related impacts, road closures, and washouts, will be posted on the municipal website as they become available.
Additional Resources and Related News
Keep a close watch on local forecasts and stay up to date
Seasonal Road Closures – Municipality of West Nipissing (List of flood-related road closures)
Spring Road Conditions and Maintenance – Municipality of West Nipissing
Flood Watch Bulletin – Ministry of Natural Resources – North Bay District
Ontario’s flood map for up-to-date conditions and flood warnings