Ontario officials on the lookout for spring flooding

TORONTO — Recent rainfall coupled with the spring melt have prompted flood watch warnings in many parts of Ontario.

The Ministry of Natural Resources issued a provincial flood watch for southeastern, central, northeastern and northwestern Ontario on Monday.

The public is urged to exercise extreme caution in and around waterways.

A provincial flood watch “provides consistent and timely technical information about the potential for flooding.”

At a local level, a flood watch is different than a flood warning — a watch indicates potential for flooding exists, while a warning means flooding is imminent or already happening. There are also provincial watershed conditions statements with information on flood potential, and outlooks on expected spring flood conditions.

People who live in vulnerable areas are encouraged to keep an eye on local forecasts and can check the province’s Flood Forecasting and Warning Program for up-to-date information.