The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake recognizes that many residents, businesses, and members of our agricultural community woke up this morning to flooded properties, damaged crops, and exceptionally high-water levels. We understand how difficult and concerning this situation is for our community.
Overnight, Niagara-on-the-Lake experienced an exceptionally intense and highly localized rainfall event, with the greatest impacts occurring in the Virgil area, receiving 146.26 mm from 11:30 p.m. last night to 4:30 a.m. this morning, overwhelming drainage systems that were already under pressure from saturated ground conditions, high lake levels, and full waterways.
Town Staff began responding overnight, activating the Town's Emergency Control Group to coordinate the municipal response. Since the early morning hours, crews have been working throughout the municipality to monitor conditions, operate pumping stations, install road closure barricades, respond to flooding concerns, clear hazards such as downed trees, and protect public safety. Staff will remain in the field throughout the day as conditions continue to evolve. Residents can be assured that the Town's drinking water remains safe. While some hydrants may be surrounded by floodwater, there have been no watermain failures or interruptions to the municipal drinking water supply.
The Town understands that residents have questions about stormwater infrastructure. Over the past several years, Council has made significant investments in stormwater management, municipal drain maintenance, culvert replacements, stormwater pond rehabilitation, and long-term infrastructure planning. In advance of forecasted rainfall events, staff also inspect and clear catch basins, culverts, and drainage infrastructure where possible as part of ongoing maintenance.
While these investments improve the capacity, reliability, and resilience of the Town's drainage system, no municipal stormwater system can completely prevent flooding during rainfall events of this magnitude. As extreme weather events become more frequent and intense, the Town will continue to assess infrastructure performance and prioritize future investments to strengthen the community's resilience over the long term.
Residents are encouraged to exercise caution while traveling today. Please do not drive through standing water, as road conditions may be unsafe, and hydroplaning can occur with little warning. Residents should also stay away from flooded creeks, culverts, and drainage channels, as fast-moving water can be extremely dangerous.
If you experience flooding or a sewer backup, please report it to the Town by phone at 905-468-3266 ext. 0 or submit an online service request at https://www.notl.com/request-service-or-file-issue
We sincerely thank residents for their patience, understanding, and cooperation as crews continue responding across the community. Updates will be shared through the Town's website and official social media channels as more information becomes available.
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The Corporation of the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake
communications@notl.com | 905-468-3266