Mississippi Valley Conservation extends water safety statement after heavy rainfall

Residents across the Mississippi River watershed are being urged to use caution around rivers, streams and other waterways after heavy rainfall last weekend left water levels elevated throughout the region.

The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) has extended its Water Safety Statement until August 12, 2026, warning that while flooding is not expected, fast-moving water, slippery banks and higher-than-usual river flows could create dangerous conditions for recreational activities.

According to the MCVA statement, the watershed received between 65 and 100 millimetres of rain over the Civic holiday long weekend, prompting Environment Canada to issue a Yellow Rainfall Warning. As a result, water levels have risen significantly across the system, with some areas beginning to stabilize while others continue to see increases as rain runoff moves downstream.

Forecasters are also calling for a risk of isolated to scattered thunderstorms in the coming days with the possibility of an additional five to 15 millimetres of rain, potentially causing further increases in water levels and stream flows.

MVCA said they are continuing to monitor conditions closely and will adjust dam outflows where possible to help balance impacts as excess water moves through the watershed.

Residents in the area are being advised to stay away from fast-flowing rivers and streams, as well as slippery or unstable riverbanks. Parents are also encouraged to closely supervise children near water, and pet owners are reminded to keep animals away from hazardous shorelines.

Those living in low-lying or flood-prone areas are also encouraged to monitor local water conditions, ensure sump pumps are working properly, keep backup pumps or generators ready, clear downspouts and secure outdoor items that could be carried away if water levels rise further.

The conservation authority says the current statement remains in effect until 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 12, unless conditions change and an updated notice is issued.

For more information, you can visit the MVCA website.