Sandbags available for pickup amid new flood warning in Mississippi River Watershed; residents urged to prepare

Residents in Mississippi Mills are being urged to stay alert and take precautions after an update to a previous flood warning was issued for the region on Wednesday, April 22, 2036. This update follows a previous flood warning issued on April 20 due to the rising water levels that continue to impact the Mississippi River watershed.

The warning was issued by the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA), who indicated that flooding is either imminent or already occurring within the watershed, including local waterways throughout the municipality.

According to the flood warning, Dalhousie Lake has already surpassed the 1:10 year flood threshold (157.50 masl) and continues to climb towards the 1:25 year flood threshold (157.80 masl). The lake is also expected to rise an additional 10 cm in the next 24 hours, leading to water levels and flows rising in the Mississippi River downstream of Dalhousie Lake. 

“Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas historically susceptible to flooding should take the necessary precautions to protect their property,” notes officials.

As a response, the municipality has also made sandbags immediately available to help residents be prepared to protect their properties. Sandbags are available at the Roads and Public Works Garage at 3131 Old Perth Road but residents are asked to contact the department in advance to request the number of bags you require. You can do so by calling 613-256-2064 or emailing PW@mississippimills.ca.

Public health officials are also advising caution for those using private wells, particularly in areas experiencing localized flooding. Southeast Public Health recommends that residents who use wells should boil water for at least one minute before drinking it or should use an alternative safe water source until testing confirms the water is safe.

Officials with the Municipality say residents should rely on flood status updates from the MVCA for the most accurate and up-to-date information on water levels and flood conditions, as the situation continues to evolve throughout the week.