March 12, 2026 – 11:15 a.m. Lucknow Flood Update: Flood Watch Still in Effect; Waters receding but risk remains

The Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) Flood Warning has expired, and water levels are receding across Lucknow and surrounding areas in the Township of Huron-Kinloss.  The watershed area continues to be under a Flood Watch, as risk remains due to the potential for debris or blockages at bridges and culverts, particularly in areas where flows remain high.

Residents are encouraged to monitor conditions closely and ensure they have a clear, safe route available to leave their property and to allow emergency responders access if needed.

Risk Level has dropped

Flows appear to have peaked overnight with water levels receding across most parts of the Watershed.  With forecasted cold temperatures and no forecast of rain, residents should expect water levels to continue to recede.  With ground and waterways saturated, it may still be some time until conditions return to normal.

You may still be at risk, especially if your property is close to the river, municipal drains, or low‑lying areas. Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring conditions as blockages may cause local conditions to change rapidly

Travelling

Some local and Bruce County roads are still experiencing flooding and remain closed at this time. Those travelling should

• Check real‑time road conditions on Municipal 511
• Slow down
• Be prepared for possible detours due to road closures
• Use extreme caution if you come across flooded roadways while travelling.
• Be aware that fast moving and deep water may sweep vehicles off the road.
• Crossing flooded sections of roadway is not recommended as the soil underneath the roadway may be saturated and created unstable conditions resulting in washouts, or heaved areas of roadway, which may not be visible. 

Municipal staff are working to remove water, assess conditions, and return roadways to a safe condition. 

If you are travelling, please check Municipal 511 for current road conditions

 https://www.municipal511.ca/

Protecting Your Property

To help protect your home and reduce flood impacts, residents in flood‑prone areas may wish to take the following steps:

• Confirm your sump pump is working properly; check backup power if you have it.
• Move valuables, electronics, and stored items to higher levels.
• Clear basement floor drains and ensure downspouts are extending well away from your foundation.
• Keep ditches or culverts near your home clear of debris only if it is safe to do so.
• Secure outdoor items that could shift or block drainage routes.

Stay Safe Near Waterways & Flooded Roadways

Please keep these safety tips in mind:

• Stay back from riverbanks and shorelines. Saturated ground and erosion can make edges unstable.
• Keep children and pets well away from rivers, streams, ditches, and drainage areas.
• Avoid all ice activities. Melting ice can weaken from underneath and may not be visible.
• Call 911 in an emergency. Do not attempt rescue from icy or fast‑moving water on your own.

Stay Informed

The Township will continue to monitor conditions closely and will provide further updates as new information becomes available. Updated information will be posted as a News Item on the Township website and shared on the Township of Huron‑Kinloss Facebook page. 

Residents can also follow the conservation authorities for direct watershed updates: 

Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) 

• Visit the MVCA website 

• Follow MVCA on Facebook 

Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) 

• Visit the SVCA website 

• Follow SVCA on Facebook 

If you encounter an emergency, call 911.

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