City offers sandbags, urges flood preparedness
The following is a release from the City of Kingston regarding flood preparedness on Thursday, May 9, 2019:
The City is urging residents to prepare for localized flooding. An Environment Canada forecast, issued at 4:49 a.m., shows 20 to 40 mm of rain could fall by Friday, most this afternoon and continuing into tonight.
This wet weather, combined with wind gusts of up to 40 km/h, higher than average water levels on Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, as well as the ground’s limited capacity to absorb more water, could cause localized flooding.
Residents living in low-lying, flood-prone areas should take measures to protect their property.
“Flood messaging is in effect for much of Central and Eastern Ontario,” says Brandi Timpson, the City’s Manager of Emergency Preparedness. “While wide-spread flooding is not expected in Kingston at this time, it’s important for all residents to be aware of what steps they can take to protect their home, family and pets.”
What you can do:
· City makes sand and sandbags available: If you’re a resident of Kingston, and you find yourself in a potential flood situation and require sand or sandbags, call 613-546-0000. The City has sand and sandbags available for pick-up at 875 Innovation Dr. You will be asked when you plan to pick up the sand or sandbags. Please note: when picking up sand/sandbags, you will be asked to present proof of residency (i.e. a piece of mail with your name and address).
· Review resources: The City has information on ways to prepare for, respond to, and recuperate from a flooding event. You can access this information by visiting CityofKingston.ca/FloodReady. The local conservation authority also provides resources regarding flood events. Review them now at CRCA.ca/Flood.
· Protect your home: Utilities Kingston advises residents to take steps to protect their basements from flooding. Check sump pumps and backwater valves for proper operation; ensure your downspouts are clear of debris and directed at least two metres away from your foundation; reduce your water use during heavy rains when sewers may fill up; remove high value items out of your basement and store other items in water tight containers; and ensure that basement windows and ground level doors are properly sealed. Get 18 Flood Facts and more detailed information to protect your home from flooding.