Water pooling and flood control

If the temperature rises above zero degrees Celsius in a short period of time, flooding can occur. The City maintains drainage systems to reduce potential flooding conditions. City crews remove snow and ice from catch basins on roads and sidewalks to ensure melting snow drains when required. It is normal for water to pool around a catch basin in wet weather. Roads are designed to drain based on the sewer capacity. Roadside ditches are cleared at the outlet end of the ditch system to provide drainage for the spring melt. 

The City of Ottawa has over 100,000 catch basins to provide drainage to our roadways and greenspaces. As a critical component of the city storm collection system, keeping catch basins clear of debris (leaves, ice, snow, etc.) is important. Find the location of your nearest catch basin using the interactive map and help keep our system operating effectively. 

Disclaimer

The catch basins depicted in this interactive map are derived from existing and collected engineering drawings for the City of Ottawa's Geographic Information System and are protected by copyright. The locations of this infrastructure information are approximate, and should not be used for construction purposes.

During this time, the City improves road conditions and reduces potential flooding by:

• Using hot and cold mix asphalt to patch potholes during the winter and in early spring.
• Clearing snow from the ends of culverts and using steam to thaw frozen catch basins to allow maximum water flow and reduce potential flooding.
• Conducting a street sweeping blitz throughout Ottawa and concentrated street sweeping in neighbourhoods where there is continuous on-street parking.
• Grading gravel roads and shoulders to re-establish an even road surface.
• After the spring thaw, seasonal load restrictions are put into effect on some city roads. Seasonal load restrictions are authorized and supported by Infrastructure Services department.

For more information, please call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401)

As snow melts in the spring and during times of significant rainfall, bodies of water such as creeks and rivers may have stronger than usual currents. The City reminds residents to stay away from all bodies of water. There is an increased risk of drowning and injury because of high water level, faster flow, cold temperature and debris in and below the water surface.

• Do not wait to evacuate. Move to higher ground as soon as you can.
• Stay away from edges of waterways, as the banks can be slippery.
• Do not walk or drive through floodwater even if it looks like it is shallow. 
• Keep children away from floodwater. 
• Stay within sight and arm’s reach of children when outdoors near water.
• Keep pets on a leash.
• Do not attempt to rescue people or animals should they fall into a river. Call 9-1-1 immediately.

For more safety information please visit Ottawa Public Health.

Will there be flooding in your area?

River-related (riverine) flooding

The potential for riverine flooding in the Ottawa area is greatest during the spring freshet season, which typically occurs between March and June. Riverine flooding may happen at other times of the year, too, largely due to heavy rainfall.

Flooding in your area will depend on your proximity to waterways and floodplains. The City is working with the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, the South Nation Conservation Authority, the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority, the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, who are responsible for monitoring water levels in our region. Check their web sites for updates and advisories on potential river flooding.

For more information please visit Spring flooding.

Rain-related (pluvial) flooding

Large amounts of rain may cause flooding on roadways, in parks, or on City and non-City owned land at any time. Regardless of the time of year, residents can help keep catch basins clear and the water flowing. It is normal for water to pool around a catch basin in wet weather. Roads are designed to drain based on storm sewer capacity. Report concerns to 3-1-1 if catch basins are not draining for extended periods of time, if roads are blocked, or ponding water becomes a hazard in parks.

For more information please visit Heavy rainfall.

Basement flooding and sewers

Help prevent basement flooding and reduce the negative effects of flood damage by making a few simple changes around your home. Plan ahead, educate yourself and take some early precautions to prevent water from getting into your house. Learn about sewer backups and basement flooding, from general questions to what to do and steps to follow in the case of a basement flood or your sewer backs up.

For more information please visit How to prepare before a flood.

Emergency preparedness tips

The best protection in any emergency is knowing what to do.  Are you ready? 

If a flood is forecast or imminent in your neighbourhood:

• Move important papers/documents, electrical appliances and other important  belongings to floors above ground level
• Listen to the radio to find out what areas are affected, what roads are safe, where to go and what to do if you are asked to leave your home
• Keep your cell phone charged and your gas tank full in case you are asked to leave your home
• Keep your emergency kit close at hand, in a portable container such as a duffle bag, backpack, or suitcase with wheels
• If you are asked to evacuate take your emergency kit with you, follow routes specified by officials and make arrangements for pets
• Check on others in your neighbourhood who may be more vulnerable and need extra help or support
• Monitor your local radio and television stations for updated news and weather information. Other useful resources are:
  • Get Flood Ready 
  • Emergency preparedness for residents
  • Emergency Preparedness Checklist
  • Emergency planning for rural residents
  • Car Survival Checklist
  • First Aid Checklist
  • Food and Water Kit Checklist
  • Important Family Documents
  • Special Needs Checklist
  • Pet preparedness checklist
  • Getting Back on Track After An Emergency

City information: contact 3-1-1
For life threatening emergencies: call 9-1-1

Additional safety issues

Ravines and escarpments

If you live near ravines or escarpments, or if you are out in these types of areas, please be vigilant about any signs of instability and report any observed conditions to 3-1-1.

Wading pools

Keep children away from wading pools during spring thaw. Heavy rainfall, higher water levels and debris from snow melt may cause drainage issues in wading pools. This may result in water back-ups and the accumulation of surface water which could pose a risk of drowning.

Parks

Some parks have wet and dry stormwater ponds. Dry ponds are low-lying areas that are designed to hold additional water during snow melt and heavy rainfall. They can be used for recreation most of the year but should be avoided following severe storms.

Roads

Flood waters from runoff and heavy rainfall can be dangerous and unpredictable. Even floods that look small can be deadly. The best thing you can do when you encounter a flooded road is to move away from the water.

• Avoid crossing flooded areas. If you are on foot, fast water could sweep you away even if it appears shallow. If you are in a car, do not drive on flooded roadways, through flood waters, or underpasses.
  • The water may be deeper than it looks, and even a car can be easily swept away by sufficiently deep and fast-moving water.
  • 30 cm (1 foot) of rushing water can carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and pick-up trucks.
  • The depth of flood water is not always obvious. The roadbed may be washed out under the water, there may be unseen hazards like debris, and you could become stranded or trapped.
• Avoid crossing bridges if the water is close to or touching the underside of the bridge and flowing quickly.
• Follow emergency detour routes if specified by Traffic Services or emergency responders. Don't take shortcuts. They could lead you to a blocked or dangerous area.
• Avoid low spots on a street where water collects and park your vehicles on higher ground.

Roadway drainage

Assist with roadway drainage by ensuring that catch basins (square grates close to the curb) near your home are open and free of snow, ice, leaves and debris. It’s normal for water to pool around a catch basin in wet weather. Roads are designed to drain based on storm sewer capacity. Contact 3-1-1 if you notice water building up on roads for extended periods of time, and the City will dispatch crews to investigate.

Do not open sewer manhole covers (discs located near the middle of the street) to drain roadways as this could result in unintended water backups in basements.

Rivers and other bodies of water

If you live by a river or body of water with rising water levels, take appropriate safety measures. This includes clearing snow away from your foundation, sandbagging areas vulnerable to floods, and ensuring your sump pump is working properly. It is also important to stay away from riverbanks during a flood. They may give way because of water saturation or weight on the banks.

If you notice water levels rising around your home, contact 3-1-1. 

Wells and septic systems

Water wells and septic systems should be graded to avoid ponding of water. In the event of flooding, the safety and operation of water wells and septic systems can be compromised. Learn about water wells and the importance of Flooding and Your Health and what to do if your well water becomes contaminated. Discover how to prevent contamination.

How can you help?

The City is currently not seeking volunteers but is advising residents who want to help to make sure friends and family - particularly children, seniors and people with disabilities - are also prepared for any potential flooding.

Up-to-date information on road closures caused by flooding is available on our Interactive Traffic Map

National Capital Commission affected pathways (includes a map)

In February and March, the City of Ottawa, in partnership with the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority undertakes ice breaking and clearing operations along the Rideau River during the freshet (when water flow is at its peak) to allow water to flow unrestricted and to alleviate possible spring flooding in flood-prone areas.

Rideau River flood control operations involve a number of steps:

Ice control

An ice control boom is installed in the late fall at Strathcona Rapids to slow the surface flow, promote an ice cover, and limit the volume of ice (slush), anchored ice and ice dams in the river. The ice control boom increases the efficiency of ice breaking and clearing operations in February and March.

Cutting keys

Starting above Rideau Falls, saws are used to cut keys to remove large pieces of ice along portions of the river.

Ice breaking operations

Charges (explosives) and amphibious excavating equipment are used in various spots along the river to break ice apart to create open water. Ice breaking operations continue daily until the river's flow is stabilized.

Flood control partner - Rideau Valley Conservation Authority

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) partners with the City of Ottawa on Rideau River flood control. The RVCA is an inter-municipal environmental agency charged with river and river-related environmental protection responsibilities for the entire Rideau Valley watershed.

RVCA assists the City's flood control operations by securing provincial funding, assisting in the evaluation of need for the ice removal program, assessing the environmental impact and implementing innovative flood control technology including the use of an amphibious excavation machine, and the ice control boom.

To learn more about Rideau River Flood Control operations you can watch the following video:

Preparing for a potential flood, protecting yourself during a flood and restoring your home after a flood can create a tremendous amount of anxiety for home owners. The following links provide great information on protecting yourself and your family from illnesses associated with contaminated flood waters.

• Residential Flooding
• Before Flooding
• During Flooding
• After Flooding

Food safety

Flooding can pose food safety concerns as waters can carry contaminates such as raw sewage, chemicals and disease-causing organisms which may contaminate or cross contaminate food products, surfaces and equipment. Here are some quick tips to help you stay safe:

• Ensure that anyone involved in all flood related clean-up activities wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Discard:
  • All foods that have been in direct contact with flood waters or sewage
    • All meats, fresh fruits and vegetables
    • All boxed foods
    • All products in jars, including home preserves and all bottle drinks
  • Discard any items (example: single service items) that cannot be properly cleaned and sanitized that have contacted flood waters/sewage
  • Porous papers, plastics or packaging (i.e. boxes or bags of rice, flour, muffin/cookies mixes)
  • Containers with screw tops, corks or caps that are wet (i.e. dressings, milk, mayonnaise, beverages)
  • Rusted, pitted, dented, swollen or leaking cans
• Throw out food that has been sitting at room temperature for more than two hours
• Clean and sanitize all food contact surfaces, equipment, containers and utensils
• Launder or discard mops and any cleaning aids that contacted the flood or sewer waters
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water after participating in any flood clean-up activities

How to make a sanitizer

Mix 1 tsp (5ml) non-scented bleach with 3 cups (750ml) of water

Don’t keep

• contaminated drywall, insulation and panelling
• equipment, furniture and linens that cannot be properly cleaned and sanitized that have been contaminated with flood waters/sewage (i.e. toaster)
• soft or porous materials that are not able to be cleaned

Water Safety

Flooding may also contaminate private wells with harmful microorganism and other contaminants. Avoid drinking untreated well water until you have had your water tested and that sample results indicate the water is safe for human consumption.

Learn more about how to sample your well water for bacteria, interpreting testing results and what to do if your well water becomes contaminated. Discover tips on how to prevent contamination of your well water.

Cleaning your home after a flood

As you begin to clean up after a flood, you may initially feel overwhelmed when determining where to begin. Learn more on what to do After a Flood or contact Ottawa Public Health at 613-580-6744 to speak with a Public Health Inspector.

The City of Ottawa provides sand and sandbags to residents who require them at the following locations:

• 29 Hurdman Road
• 911 Industrial Avenue

Before you begin

Please review the Ottawa Public Health "Prevention of respiratory illnesses" page.