Flooding

High water levels brings the risk of property flooding and shoreline damage. This page provides resources on how Town of Essex residents can best reduce the impacts of local flooding.

Protect Yourself

Shoreline flooding is a real threat. It is essential that you plan ahead and have a place to go. Plan now where you can go so that you and your loved ones can be as safe as possible.

What you will bring with you?
Where you will park your car?
What you will do with your pets?

It is up to you to protect you and your loved ones. In an emergency, calls are prioritized and assistance may be delayed or unavailable.

If you are ordered to evacuate, an evacuation route will be provided by emergency services. If you choose to ignore the evacuation recommendation, Emergency Services may not be able to get to you in a timely fashion.

If you or a loved one are mobility challenged or have special medical needs, your plan should take into account extra time and requirements you may need to self evacuate.

One of the best ways to be prepared is to create a 72 Hour Emergency Kit, which will provide all the necessities in case of an emergency or evacuation.

Learn more about getting your home and family prepared at visit our emergency preparedness page.

Protect Your Home

Below are some steps homeowners can take to protect their homes and protect their homes and properties.

Waterproof your basement and ensure your sump pump is working. Install a battery-operated or water-powered backup in case of power failure.
Apply to the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program. The Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program is a Town of Essex program which assists homeowners by way of providing a financial subsidy to disconnect downspouts, complete investigative camera work, install a sump pump and/or back-water valve (flood protection devices), and purchase a rain barrel.
Consider placing sandbags on your property.
Clear gutters and drains. Move furniture, valuables and important documents to a safe place.

Types of Flood Alerts

The Essex Region Conservation Authority monitors water levels, current conditions, and weather forecasts to predict flooding. The Authority may issue the following alerts:

Watershed Conditions Statement: factors related to flooding may be occuring, but flooding is not expected.
Flood Outlook: early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts and current conditions.
Flood Watch: potential for flooding within specific watercourses or municipalities. Landowners in flood-prone areas should be prepared to respond with the necessary actions.
Flood Warning: flooding is imminent or is already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.

To check the current alert, visit the Essex Region Conservation Flood Status page.

Safety Information

Electrical Safety

There is an increased risk of serious injury or death when water makes contact with electrical systems. The following electrical safety tips could save your life, or the lives of those working in your home.
Do not enter your basement if you suspect water has risen above the level of electrical outlets and electrical appliances. Electricity can move through water or wet flooring and cause electrical shock. If you suspect water has risen above these levels, contact a licensed electrician and your local electric utility immediately to arrange the safe disconnection of power.
- HydroOne: 1-800-434-1235
- ELK Energy: 1-877-355-7798
Watch out for downed power lines in flooded areas. If you see one, stay out of the water and back at least 10 meters and call 911.

Natural Gas Safety

If you smell natural gas or detect other signs of a gas leak, please take the following steps:
1. Prevent sources of ignition. Do not touch electrical switches, light candles, or use a landline phone.
2. Exit the building immediately.
3. From a safe area, call 911 and Enbridge Gas 1-877-969-0999
4. Do not re-enter the building until it has been inspected.

Stay Informed

Monitor your property and adjacent waterways.
Listen and watch local media outlets for updates about flooding conditions.
Follow the Town‘s news page and social media accounts for regular updates.
Sign up for the Essex Alerts Emergency Notification System. During a flooding event, impacted residents will receive important updates and instructions through Essex Alerts.