The City of Belleville Emergency Control Group met Sunday, May 7th at 1:00 p.m. to review the current status of water levels and determine the preventative actions to be taken to minimize resulting issues.
With the elevated Lake Ontario levels Quinte Conservation predicts the Bay of Quinte could rise another six inches. Residents should be aware these Bay levels are long term and do not reverse quickly. As a result they are not anticipated to recede until mid-June or July. It is possible for this time frame to be shorter if sunshine and warm winds play a role in the upcoming weeks.
The level of the Moira River has increased and it is estimated these levels will peak on Tuesday of this coming week and then begin to decrease. The levels are not expected to reach those experienced in 2014. Extra staff is prepared to assist residents with issues along the river shoreline. Firefighters have helped to sandbag in the Foxboro area. There are approximately five homes which could be impacted in this flood plain and the sandbagging is a preventative measure.
For safety purposes these shoreline streets are closed south of St. Paul Street: South George, South John, South Church, Harbour Drive and Keegan Parkway east of Foster Avenue. Another closure is Morgan Road. All waterfront trails are closed, however West and East Zwick’s waterfront trail remains open. Residential homes and businesses in this shoreline area are being closely monitored. Please remember it is illegal to drive on closed roads and the police will be monitoring the area. For the safety of all, please stay away as directed – submerged roads are unstable and can collapse.
Those with concerns regarding residential flooding should direct them to Fire Dispatch at 613-962-2010. Please leave contact information and someone will respond and assess the situation. Sandbags do not help with groundwater infiltration. If you are concerned for possible basement flooding, relocate your items and disconnect electrical appliances.
“We would like to thank everyone for their patience at this time,” said Mayor Christopher. “The City staff is working diligently to ensure every precaution is taken to alleviate the flood conditions and keep our citizens safe. It is imperative people stay away from the closed trails and roadways as these measures have been taken for safety reasons. ”
Those looking for weather and flood update information are encouraged to visit the Weather Network, Environment Canada and Quinte Conservation websites.
For information concerning drinking water affected by flooding or keeping food safe during a power failure search emergency preparedness on the Health Unit website at: Hpepublichealth.ca
For more flood safety information or to find a licensed electrical contractor in your area visit: Esasafe.com
The City will continue to monitor the flood situation, providing further updates as necessary.
For more information:
Mark MacDonald
City of Belleville
firechief@city.belleville.on.ca