Here’s how to respond to flooding in Oakville

With a heavy rainfall expected overnight Tuesday and into Wednesday, the Town of Oakville is reminding residents what they can do to prevent flooding and how to reach them if water is pooling in certain areas.

More than 50 mm of rain could fall through Tuesday afternoon and evening and through Wednesday morning, said Environment and Climate Change Canada in a weather statement.

The heavy rain could cause flash flooding and water pooling on roads in Oakville. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is also possible.

The Town of Oakville said Staff are aware and are monitoring the storm.

Floods can happen anywhere and anytime, especially during heavy thunderstorms,” said the Town. “They can damage your home and your belongings. Sewer back-ups occur when the storm or sanitary sewers become too full, and the sewage flows backwards into residents’ homes.

“By taking the right steps and being prepared, you can help keep your home safe from the effects of flooding.”

Contact the Town of Oakville for

• Catch basin, ditch, or culvert flooding
• Creek  or stormwater management ponds
• Road or sidewalk water pooling
• Fallen tree branches or downed trees
• Property flooding that does not drain away
• Park, trail, or town facility drainage concerns
• Road debris

Flood prevention tips

The Government of Canada provides 10 tips to make your home flood-ready and other online resources that help prevent flooding in your home.

• Ensure your yard slopes away from your house, not towards it.
• Ensure that eavestroughs (gutters) and downspouts are clear and drain properly.
• Keep floor drains inside your home clear.
• Ensure window wells are free of debris.
• Install weather protection sealant around basement windows and the base of ground-level doors.