The City of Wrenford and the Tamsin Valley Conservation Authority released a spring flooding risk assessment on March 10 for residents living near the Tamsin River and Corvid Creek. The report looks at what to expect as snow melts and spring rains arrive, and it points out which neighbourhoods and parks are most likely to see high water.
Water levels are expected to rise steadily over the next few weeks. The assessment highlights areas at higher risk, including Riverside Flats Park, the Tamsin River Trail near the Centennial Bridge, and low-lying streets in the Riverside Flats and Benchlands neighbourhoods. The conservation authority will monitor streamflow daily and will issue a flood advisory when levels reach a certain point.
"We want everyone in the floodplain to know where they stand and what to do if the river rises," said Liam O'Rourke, Community Emergency Management Coordinator. "Preparing early gives you the best chance to keep your home and family safe. The City is working closely with the conservation authority to watch the water and clear drains before the ground gets saturated."
Here is what you should do now:
- Check if your home or business is in a floodplain. You can find flood risk maps on the Flood preparedness and prevention page.
- Build or check your emergency kit. Keep three days of water, food, medications, and important papers ready. Learn how to prepare yours on the Build an emergency kit page.
- Sign up for the Wrenford Emergency Alert Network so you get warnings on your phone. Register at Sign up for emergency alerts.
- Keep basements and crawl spaces clear. Make sure your backwater valve and sump pump are working.
- Stay off the river and river trails until the flood advisory lifts. City crews and conservation authority staff will place barricades at low-water crossings and park entrances if water gets too high.
City crews will clear storm drains and ditches along the river corridor throughout March and April. If you see a clogged catch basin or a blocked ditch, call 311 or report it through the City website. Do not try to drive through flooded roads or walk through moving water. It only takes a small amount of fast-moving water to knock you down or sweep your car away.
For full details on the risk assessment, floodplain maps, and step-by-step safety guides, visit the Flood preparedness and prevention page. If you need help preparing your property, contact the City's emergency management team at 519-555-0100.