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The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority issued a flood warning Sunday after weekend rain combined with the runoff from melting snow increased Rideau River water levels and flows enough to flood some low-lying areas.

The areas that are experiencing flooding — “or will be very soon” — include:

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The smaller creeks and streams in the lower Rideau Valley watershed, including the low-lying roads and waterfront properties adjacent to the Jock River (near Richmond) and Stevens Creek (near North Gower), and any connected creeks or ditches;

The Long Reach from Burritts Rapids to Manotick of the Rideau River, including the communities of Hilly Lane, Cedar Beach, Rideau Glen and other neighourhoods on that reach;

The low-lying roads and waterfront properties adjacent to the Tay River between the outlet of Christie Lake and the Beveridge Locks near Port Elmsley.

Meanwhile, City of Ottawa crews are continuing their annual ice removal program on the Rideau River between Rideau Falls and Bronson Avenue.

There’s no significant rain in the forecast but water levels and flows are expected to stay high due to ongoing runoff, the authority predicted. As temperatures rise, the risk of ice jams remains high on local streams and rivers if flows increase faster than ice can melt, so residents are warned to watch the river closely.

There could also be flooding along roads due to the build-up of ice and snow in ditches.

“RVCA staff will be monitoring conditions but we always welcome any unique observations from watershed residents,” the authority said.

Changing water levels also mean unstable ice on lakes, ditches, streams and rivers, so everyone should use “extreme caution” near the water and parents should warn and supervise kids.

People in low-lying areas that have flooded in the past are warned to: