Heavy snowfall brings flood risks and winter safety concerns to Halton

Why more snow means a higher flood risk

When large amounts of snow begin to melt quickly, the ground may be too frozen to absorb the excess water. Combined with heavy spring rains, this can lead to overflowing rivers, backed-up storm drains, and even basement flooding.

How you can prepare now

Taking proactive steps now can help reduce the risk of flooding.

• Move snow away from your home: shovel excess snow at least a few feet from your home’s foundation to minimize seepage.
• Clear your downspouts and eavestroughs: safely ensure melting snow and rainwater can move unobstructed out and away from your home.
• Check your sump pump: test it before the thaw begins to confirm it's working properly. It’s also important to make sure the discharge pipe is clear – treat this with the same attention as checking your furnace, smoke alarms and lint traps!
• Inspect your foundation and floor slab: check for cracks, water stains, or other signs of past damage, such as bowed foundation walls or mould. If you notice any issues, schedule an assessment with a trusted professional to prevent further deterioration and potential flooding risks.
• Keep storm drains clear: remove snow and debris from nearby drains and ditches to prevent water buildup.
• Protect valuables: store important items off the basement floor to prevent potential water damage.
• Stay informed: monitor weather updates for sudden temperature shifts that could accelerate snowmelt.

Get support through Halton’s Enhanced Basement Flooding Prevention Subsidy Program

Flooding can happen when you least expect it, but Halton Region continues to invest in and strengthen its wastewater infrastructure to better handle extreme weather. Through the Enhanced Basement Flooding Prevention Subsidy Program, residents can access financial support for home improvements that help prevent basement flooding.

• Downspout Disconnection Subsidy: To reduce flood risks, Halton Region covers 100 per cent of costs incurred for materials and contractor labour to disconnect downspouts from municipal wastewater systems, up to a maximum of $500.
• Weeping Tile Disconnection & Sump Pump Installation Subsidy: Halton Region also provides 100 per cent coverage for costs related to disconnecting weeping tiles and installing a sump pump, up to a maximum of $5,000.
• Backwater Valve Installation Subsidy: Up to $675, homeowners can receive 50 per cent of the costs for materials and labour when installing a backwater valve.
• Sanitary Lateral Lining and Repair Subsidy: To help maintain underground wastewater infrastructure, Halton Region covers 50 per cent of the costs for materials and labour to repair sanitary laterals (underground sewer/wastewater pipes), up to a maximum of $2,000.

Review the Terms and Conditions in the subsidy application form or contact 311 before beginning any work for full details.

Winter safety beyond flooding

While flooding is a major concern, winter weather also creates additional hazards. One often-overlooked issue is snow-covered fire hydrants(external link), which can delay emergency response times.

Fire trucks carry a limited amount of water, so firefighters rely on quick access to hydrants. When hydrants are buried under snow, valuable time is lost locating and clearing them. There are 25,000 hydrants in Halton Region and keeping them clear is a shared responsibility. It is generally considered the responsibility of the residents occupying property near a hydrant to keep it clear. Hydrants should have at least 1 metre (3 feet) of open space around them, with a direct path to the street for easy access.

We understand that clearing hydrants isn’t always possible for everyone. If you need assistance, contact 311 for help. Additionally, keeping sidewalks and driveways clear of ice and snow helps prevent slips and falls, reduces the risk of injuries in your neighbourhood and the number of emergency calls.

Stay prepared and stay safe

Winter may be winding down, but the risks associated with heavy snowfall, flooding, infrastructure damage, and emergency response challenges, are still a concern. By taking proactive steps now, such as clearing storm drains, managing snow buildup, and ensuring fire hydrants remain accessible, you can help protect your home and your community.

As the seasons change, staying informed and prepared will help keep you, your family, and your neighbours safe. Take action today to prevent tomorrow’s problems, because preparedness is key to flooding and winter safety.