Bradford taking precautions and monitoring water levels

A vehicle drives through water on a street during rainfall. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes

Much of the flooding across the region has been focused on the northern part of the region but communities to the south are taking precautions.

The Town of Bradford is monitoring water levels, working closely with the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA), a group responsible for local watershed flood forecasting and monitoring.

“At this time, there are no significant concerns in Bradford West Gwillimbury,” said Mayoy James Leduc. “Our staff are monitoring conditions closely and working with our partners to stay informed. We encourage residents to take simple precautions and stay aware as conditions continue to evolve.”

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The Town’s Drainage Superintendent, Frank Jonkman, said standing water in agricultural fields is typical for this time of year.

“Standing water in farm fields is quite normal during the spring as snowmelt and rainfall move through the drainage system,” said Jonkman. “We’ve already completed some precautionary work over the past few days to help mitigate potential flooding risks, particularly in higher-risk areas, and will continue working closely with the LSRCA to monitor conditions.”

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Here’s what you can do

Residents can check any ditches near their property and report any blockages. People can also make sure catch basins around the home don’t have leaves or garbage in them. Finally, the public is asked to report any areas where water can’t flow.

The Town reminds residents to avoid travelling on roads near water, bridges, ravines, embankments, low-lying areas and other bodies of water. It also warns people to not drive through, stand or walk in moving water. If you’re in a car and it starts to flood, immediately exit the vehicle and move to higher ground.