Brace for more flooding in Hamilton this week, city warns

Less than two weeks after a raging rainstorm flooded streets and basements across Hamilton, the city is warning this week's wet weather couldbring even more flooding.

Forecasters say this week will bring more wet and windy weather. Residents should take steps to preventing flooding in and around their homes, the city says. They should also be careful around watercourses.

This especially applies to homeowners near Lake Ontario, says a warning issued Monday.

The city advises homeowners do the following:

• Keep catch basins in front of your home clear of leaves and debris.
• If your home has a backwater valve installed, follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning to ensure that it is functioning properly.
• Check your sump pump to make sure it's working properly.
• If your home is prone to flooding, consider ensuring any valuables are up off of basement floors.
• Keep your eaves troughs clean. When your eaves troughs are blocked, the rain will pour over the edges and land on the ground next to your home. If you have cracks in the concrete wall of your basement, or problems with your weeping tile, this water could enter your home.

This comes after an April 20 rainstorm flooded parts of Hamilton especiallyDundas. The city declared it a disaster to unlock thousands in potential compassionate grants for homeowners who suffered water damage.

The waterfront trail is still closed because of wind damage, unusually high water levels and erosion. The Desjardin Trail is closed and underwater.

Other tips:

• Motorists should be careful when driving on flooded roads.
• Residents should keep children and pets away from potentially unstable watercourses.
• People should also avoid local waterfalls since they are experiencing increased flows and may be prone to flash flooding.
• Call 905-546-CITY to report sewer back ups, flooding over roadways, and fallen trees or debris in drainage ditches or culverts.

The forecast for Monday night is partly cloudy with a40 per cent chance of showers early in the evening evening, and a 60 per cent chance of showers before morning.

Tuesday's forecast is mainly cloudy with a 60 per cent chance of showers. Tuesday night will be cloudy with a 60 per cent chance of showers early in the evening.