Types of Flood Notices

Flooding is a natural process. While the Authority has done much to reduce the risk to life and property, some flooding in developed areas is still inevitable. The Authority, therefore, operates a flood warning program designed to warn residents in flood-prone areas. Through a network of 11 stream gauges, five snow sampling stations, ice monitoring, and current meteorological data, Authority staff monitor stream flow conditions. Should a flood be imminent, the Municipal Flood Coordinators and the media are contacted and officials take appropriate action.

There are five types of notices sent to the media and municipalities depending on watershed conditions:

High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.

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.

Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services, and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.