Flooding can happen any time of the year, especially with the increasing frequency of intense storms, heavy rain, and ice storms. Climate change is making flood risks more severe, with Milton expected to experience:

  • More rainfall and extreme rain events
  • Higher total annual precipitation
  • More intense windstorms, ice storms, and hailstorms

Being prepared can help reduce damage to your home and community.

How to reduce your flood risk

The Government of Canada provides simple steps to protect your home:

  • Put sealant around basement windows and the base of ground-level doors.
  • Install flood shields or barriers for basement windows and doors.
  • Raise large appliances in the basement above the potential water level from a flood.
  • Secure furnaces, water heaters, and/or oil tanks so they won’t tip over in a flood.
  • Check that all basement flood drains are not blocked or covered up.
  • Make sure your sump pump is working and install a battery-operated backup.
  • Ensure your property is graded so that water runs away from your basement walls.
  • Check that your roof and eavestroughs are draining properly in heavy rains.
  • Make sure your downspouts extend at least 2 m (6’) from your basement walls.
  • Use a rain barrel to catch runoff from your roof.
  • Don’t wait for the water!

What to do if you experience flooding

1. Report Flooding Based on the Cause

Rising water levels (rivers, streams, lakes)
  • Call 311 (Halton Region)
  • Call Conservation Halton
  • In an emergency, call 911
Overland flooding (blocked culverts, ditches, catch basins, construction-related issues)

  • Call Milton Operation Services at 905-878-7252 ext. 2500

Wastewater backup (sewer flooding into your home)
  • Call 311 (Halton Region) for assistance

2. Contact Your Insurance Provider

If your home has flood damage, contact your insurance company immediately. They will guide you through the next steps for assessment and claims.

Resources and roles

Stormwater Management Master Plan
Milton’s Stormwater Management Master Plan is developing a comprehensive strategy to manage stormwater. Learn more and engage on Let’s Talk Milton.

Flood hazard mapping
Flood hazard mapping is a decision-making tool for the safe development of land in Milton. Learn more about flood hazard mapping.

Conservation Halton
Conservation Halton's role:
  • Regulating development through planning and permitting
  • Flood forecasting and warning
  • Floodplain mapping
  • Public education

Check Conservation Halton’s Flood Status.

Halton Region
Halton Region's role:

Important Resources:

Town of Milton
The Town of Milton’s role:
  • Emergency preparedness
  • Emergency response to safeguard people and property

The Government of Ontario
The Government of Ontario's role:
  • Ministry of Natural Resources & Forestry
  • Response coordination for large events

Important Resources

Environment Canada

Monitor and/or subscribe to weather alerts with Environment Canada or various other independent weather apps and websites.