Flood Forecasting & Messages
Flood Status
The Authority can issue three types of flood messages:
Normal: No flood conditions exist.
Watershed Conditions Statement: a general notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding.
There are two variations of these:
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Water Safety Statement: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
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Flood Outlook Statement: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.
Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take action to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.
Flood Messages
To find out if a flood message has been issued:
- Radio, television and daily newspapers (both in print and online) will air flood messages.
- Go to the NVCA website and check the flood status icon. The icon is also on the top of this page - click the icon to see the most recent flood message. Check back often as messages can change without notice.
- Dial the NVCA's flood information line - call 705-424-1479 and select option 1.
- Contact your local municipality.
- Keep an eye on social media (Twitter, Facebook) for updates from your municipality, emergency services and the conservation authority.
If you have an urgent flooding concern, contact your municipality. If you are unable to reach someone, contact our Flood Duty Officers at 705-333-9939 or 705-796-7548 and we will attempt to contact the municipality on your behalf.
Emergencies should always be called in to 911 service, or to the appropriate emergency service number for your location.
