City crews are hard at work preparing for the arrival of more rain at the end of the week.
City crews are hard at work preparing for the arrival of more rain at the end of the week.
According to Environment Canada, St. Catharines received more than 50mm of rain Monday and could receive similar amounts Thursday and Friday. To prepare for the storm, City crews are cleaning and clearing ditches, sewers and culverts to keep water moving. If they can do so safely, residents are encouraged to assist by removing debris from ditches and culverts near their property.
The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority has reported that the watershed is saturated, increasing the potential for flooding. Even small amounts of rainfall at this time may cause localized flooding. Residents are asked to be careful around any open drainage ditches, inlets, trails and watercourses.
For public safety and to preserve the quality of the grass, all sports fields in St. Catharines will be closed until Monday, May 8. Residents with questions about using or renting sports fields are asked to call 905.688.5601 ext. 1926. Kiwanis Field will remain open.
Residents can report flooding, downed trees and drainage issues by calling Citizens First at 905.688.5600 or emailing citizensfirst@stcatharines.ca
With the increase in rain comes the potential for basements to flood. Here are some tips homeowners should follow to protect their homes:
- Remove debris from downspouts and point them away from the foundation wall, ideally onto the lawn or garden.
- Disconnect downspouts and sump pumps from the sanitary sewer system. During heavy rain, water discharged into the sanitary sewer from downspouts and sump pumps can overwhelm sewers, increasing the possibility of a sewer backup.
- Don't put kitchen waste, grease and oils down the sink as they can clog the sanitary sewer.
- Seal cracks or openings in walls, floors, windows, foundations and window wells.
- Ensure the grading around your home slopes away from the foundation wall.
- Ensure your sump pump is properly working.
