Flooding

Living in a lakeside community, the Town of Georgina and its residents often face issues of flooding. During spring weather conditions and heavy rainfall events, water levels in local creeks and watercourses can rise and be dangerous.

Current flood conditions in Georgina

The Town of Georgina is experiencing elevated water levels. The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) advises that current lake levels are well above average for this time of year. Flooding is already occurring in some low-lying areas. Residents, particularly those in low-lying or flood-prone areas, are encouraged to stay informed and take steps to protect their property. For current conditions, forecasts and safety information, visit the LSRCA Flooding Page.

Sand available for residents amid high water levels

With very high-water levels and more rain in the forecast, the Town of Georgina is providing sand at designated locations to help residents protect their properties. Residents can fill their own sandbags using the sand provided. The Town will also provide sandbags located in blue recycling totes at the sand locations.

Residents are welcome to fill their own sandbags or use the Town provided sandbags at the following locations:

West Park Heights Cul de sac
Stephen Leacock Theatre (northwest corner)
The ROC (east parking lot)
Pefferlaw Lions Hall (southeast parking lot)

Residents must bring their own shovels to fill sandbags.

If there are no empty sandbags, call 905-476-4301, and follow the prompts to reach after-hours service.

Sandbags and flood preparation

Sandbags can help reduce the impact of flooding by diverting water away from buildings and other vulnerable areas. When properly placed, sandbags create a temporary barrier that can slow and redirect water flow, helping to protect homes and property during high water events.

How to fill and place sandbags

Fill sandbags about two-thirds full. Do not overfill

Do not tie the bags. Fold the top over loosely to allow the sand to settle
Place bags lengthwise and tuck the folded top under the next bag
Lay the first row directly on the ground and build up in layers
Stack bags in a staggered pattern, like bricks, to reduce gaps
Tamp down each layer to create a tighter seal before adding the next row
Angle the wall slightly toward the water for better stability
If available, place plastic sheeting under or behind the sandbags to help reduce seepage

Before placing sandbags, clear snow, ice and debris from the area to improve contact with the ground.

Important considerations

Sandbags are a temporary measure and may not stop all water
Do not place sandbags directly against structures with weak or aging foundations
Avoid placing sandbags where they will be exposed to strong waves or fast-moving water
Building a sandbag barrier requires time and physical effort. Plan accordingly and work with others when possible

Common mistakes to avoid

Filling bags too full, making them difficult to stack and leaving gaps
Rushing construction without enough help, increasing the risk of injury or poor results
Overlapping bag edges instead of staggering them
Assuming sandbags provide permanent protection

Safety tips

Use caution when preparing and placing sandbags:

Lift with your legs, not your back, to avoid injury
Wear gloves and sturdy footwear
Work with a partner when possible
Wash hands after handling sandbags
Stay clear of fast-moving or deep water
Keep children and pets away from work areas

Drainage and flooding

During heavy rain or rapid snowmelt, water may pool around your house or accumulate in driveways or patios. This may lead to standing water, difficulty of water flow or unwanted water on your property.

Drainage issues are usually caused by:

compacted soil
filled in or blocked side yard
backyard drainage swales
blocked private catch basin
incorrect grading
improper location and installation of landscape features like a fence or flowerbeds
excessive precipitation

Managing standing or excess water using landscaping, rain-scaping techniques, proper grading and maintaining your catch basin or stormwater drainage swale will reduce surface water getting into your home.

Flooding safety tips

Watercourses will be flowing higher than normal causing streams and rivers to become dangerous, especially in the vicinity of culverts and bridges. Children and pets should stay away from all watercourses.
Keep ditches, culverts, drains and catch basins free of any debris to prevent possible flooding.
Be mindful of road closures and adhere to detour signs should there be water over the road.
At home, check your sump pump regularly to ensure it is working properly. Make sure your pump is discharging at a high point on your lawn to ensure it does not redirect back into your basement. It is advisable to have a backflow preventer on your sump pump discharge line.
If you experience flooding in your basement, be mindful of electrical hazards that may be present.
If you have sustained personal property damage, contact your insurance company.
After flooding, well owners should take action to make sure their water supply is safe for consumption.
Be prepared. York Region’s Preparing for Emergencies website advises how to keep your family safe during a number of emergency events, including flooding.
Follow the Town’s social media channels (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) and check the website for updates.

To report road flooding during business hours, call 905-476-4301. For after-hours emergencies, call the same number and follow the prompts to reach on-call staff.