Clear catch basins to prevent flooding

With melting snow and rainfall in the forecast for Vaughan, it’s important for everyone to work together to help prevent water ponding or flooding due to blocked or concealed catch basins. Catch basins need to be kept clear to allow for proper stormwater drainage as snow melts – especially during temperature fluctuations. The resident living closest to a catch basin is encouraged to help clear it of snow, ice and other debris, if it’s safe to do so.

With the combination of increased runoff from rainfall on the frozen ground as well as snow and ice melt, water levels and flows in rivers will likely be higher than normal this week. All rivers and streams within Vaughan should be considered dangerous as the weather conditions can result in higher water levels, fast-flowing cold water and slippery or unstable banks. These conditions are favourable for the breakage and movement of river ice along watercourses and may cause ice jams and flooding in low‐lying areas.

The City of Vaughan is urging residents to stay away from streams, rivers, shoreline, ice-covered areas and low-level trails. Please exercise caution around all bridges, culverts and dams as well as around all bodies of water and valley banks. Parents are reminded to alert children of these dangers and supervise their activities. Avoid areas that may be experiencing flooding or erosion, including trails by water.

City staff continue to monitor Environment Canada alerts and will mobilize services needed to respond to urgent atters and ensure the safety of citizens before, during and after a weather event.

For information on the City’s winter weather operations, visit vaughan.ca/snow. Visit the City’s Emergency Planning webpage for information on safety protocols. For the latest updates, subscribe to Vaughan News and follow the official corporate channels on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

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