The Essex Regional Conservation Authority is concerned about flooding along the lake shores in Essex County. The water level has not been this high since 1998. The previous record rain level was 170 set in June of 2008 and 2015 is set to surpass it. ERCA blames heavy snow the past two winters, and says the wet spring is also a factor.

A lot of rain can fall during a thunderstorm. And it can some down pretty fast too – sometimes so fast the storm drains can’t keep up with it. This causes flooding in the streets and water pooling around downspouts on your home.

Things to watch for during thunderstorms:

Listen for your sump pump going on and off. If it is, go down and check the water level.

Watch for clogged catch basins out in front of your home. Call 311 to report a flooded street.

Obviously, avoid downed power lines and broken gas lines. Report them to 311. Stay indoors. If you smell gas inside your home, leave and call 911.

After the storm:

Report fallen trees, flooded streets or damaged public utilities to proper department.

Check your basement for flooding. Look outside your home for water pooling around the foundation.

If you have flooding:

Turn off your home’s power at the main breaker switches. If you can’t reach it without going into water, leave it.

Avoid walking through water that has seeped in your home – it may contain hazardous materials.

Call your insurance company. They’ll advise you on any immediate clean up procedures.

Be sure to take lots of photos and document items that have been damaged or need to be replaced.

Open the windows to help dry everything out.

Contact a company like RC White for clean up and restoration estimates.

Renovation time is the best time to look for these sorts of problems and fix them.