Belleville, Ontario declares state of emergency due to flooding

Thursday, April 10, 2014, 5:43 PM -

Belleville Mayor Neil Ellis declared a state of emergency Thursday, with rising water levels raising concerns north of the city.

According to a statement posted to the city's website, flows in the Moira River could rise as much as 20 cm within the next two days, particularly in areas around Foxboro.

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“Conditions are stabilizing but with the potential for rain fall over the next 24-48 hours, we expect to need volunteers to help build sand bag barriers to help protect property and have declared a state of emergency for that purpose,” Ellis said.

“City operations and fire staff have been working with Quinte Conservation to monitor the situation over the past several days.”

"Belleville could see up to 10 mm of rain Thursday as a cold front passes through," says Weather Network meteorologist Brian Dillon.

"Between Sunday and Tuesday, another system could bring the potential for additional rain, and that lead to more flooding."

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Officials note that flooding isn't expected to occur south of Highway 401 -- and that staff are ready to mobilize should the situation get worse.

Sand and sand bag supplies are available to residents that will be affected by the flood conditions. City staff continue to contact homeowners directly in the areas that have already experienced flooding or are most likely to in the next 24-48 hours.

Residents interested in picking up sandbag supplies can do so at the Gerry Masterson Community Centre on Harmony Road.

Homeowners that are concerned about flooding are urged to call the Flood Information Hotline at: (613) 962-7550.