Heavy rainfall
Environment Canada has issued a heavy rainfall warning starting today. Heavy rainfall paired with frozen ground increases the risk of water finding its way into even a properly sealed and constructed basement.
Below are a few simple steps to protect your home:
- Clean out your window wells by removing snow/ice, leaves and debris in order to avoid clogging the drainage system, which is required to keep water from backing, pooling or freezing against basement windows.
- If you have eavestroughing, check downspouts to ensure water is diverted away from your house and not towards your foundation.
- Second floor windows that are above a ground floor roof should be clear of snow or ice build-up directly in front of them.
- Prevent ice from building up against your home by removing snow or water directly against the foundation as free-thaw weather combined with the heat of your home can cause ice damming.⠀ ⠀
After heavy rain fall, it is normal to see some temporary ponding in streets. You can help by clearing catch basins (curbside drains) by removing snow and ice that may block the drainage. Should you notice high quantities of ponding water in the street that last more than 24 hours, please call 3-1-1 to report any issues.
For more information on preparing for severe storms, here are tips on how to prepare before a severe storm and what to do during a severe storm.