Rainfall Warning for Cottage Country

Over the next few days, the City of Hamilton is expecting up to 35 millimeters of rain. Crews are out preparing for the storm event and while they say we won’t likely see major flooding, they advise homeowners, especially those on the beach front, to stay alert.

Ahead of the rainfall this week, crews were out cleaning debris to keep the water flowing.

Andrew Grise is the Director of Hamilton Water, and says the city has seen flooding events in the past and adds that if the inlets are jammed flooding can occur just like in Dundas two years ago when, in just one day, the city experienced a months worth of rain.

Conditions can change drastically and without a moments notice, but Grise says the city has invested in infrastructure to prevent flooding. The city spent about 90 million dollars over the last few years on the tanks to help prevent flooding.

Water draining into sewers, down into the pipes under the road network, would lead to the system below us. But now, more than ever, the city is feeling the pressure after the Ontario Government cut funding to conservation authorities dealing with flood management.

The leader of the Green Party saying the cut will cost us more in the long run.

Grise says they are also monitoring lake water levels. The Hamilton Conservation Authority telling us that this area could experience localized flooding. The city’s advice to homeowners: get any precious materials off the ground if you see water levels near your home and make sure your sump-pump is functioning properly. If you do experience any problems you are asked to contact the city.