The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake and surrounding municipalities are expected to receive significant rainfall today and into tomorrow, which may result in rapidly rising water levels and localized flooding.
To help minimize the risk of flooding, residents are encouraged to ensure that drainage systems on their properties are functioning properly and free from obstructions.
Simple steps to help manage water flow include:
- Clear debris from catch basins, gutters, and downspouts on a regular basis.
- Ensure sump pumps are functioning properly and discharging water away from buildings.
- Check that the grading around your home directs water away from the foundation.
If you are experiencing flooding-related issues, please submit an online service request through the Town’s website at notl.com/request-service-or-file-issue or call 905-468-3266 ext. 0. Your service requests help Town Staff identify problem areas and respond efficiently. Any emergency matters that arise after hours can be reported by calling the after-hours phone line at 905-682-2704.
Heavy rainfall can overwhelm local drainage systems and cause flooding due to:
- Blocked waterways: Debris, changes to landscaping, or obstructions in ditches, culverts, and catch basins can prevent proper water flow.
- Dry, compacted ground: This can limit water absorption, increasing runoff.
- Floodplain areas: These areas are naturally prone to rising water levels during storms.
- Altered swales: Modifications to natural drainage paths may disrupt the flow of water.
- Overflowing storm drains: High volumes of rainwater can exceed the stormwater system's capacity.
- Improper sump pump connections: Pumps that discharge directly into municipal ditches can contribute to localized flooding.
The Town’s Roads and Water Divisions actively monitor and respond to weather-related flooding impacts. You can learn more about how the Town manages flooding by viewing its Flooding Infographic.
For immediate alerts, follow the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Media contact:
Marah Minor, Communications Coordinator
905-468-3266 | communications@notl.com