Milton’s Stormwater Management Master Plan is developing a comprehensive strategy to manage stormwater across the town. Residents are encouraged to learn more and share feedback through Let’s Talk Milton.
Flooding Information
What's on this page
↓Overview
↓Understanding flooding risks
↓How to reduce your flood risk
↓What to do if you experience flooding
↓Resources and roles
↓How this information affects you
Overview
Flooding can occur during intense storms, prolonged rainfall, rapid snowmelt, or when drainage systems are overwhelmed. As climate change increases the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, Milton may experience more localized flooding.
This page explains common causes of flooding, steps you can take to reduce flood risk, what to do if flooding occurs, and the roles different organizations play in flood prevention and response.
Flooding can affect homes, businesses, and public spaces in different ways. Common causes of flooding in Milton include:
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Heavy rainfall and extreme rain events
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Rapid snowmelt and ice jams
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River and stream flooding
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High winds, thunderstorms, and hailstorms
Understanding how flooding can occur helps residents prepare and take preventative action.
Taking proactive steps can help reduce the likelihood and impact of flooding on your property. The Government of Canada provides simple measures homeowners can take to protect their homes.
To help reduce flood risk:
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Install and maintain window well covers and basement window guards
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Install flood shields or barriers for basement windows and doors
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Raise large appliances in the basement above potential water levels
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Secure furnaces, water heaters, and oil tanks so they do not tip or float
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Ensure sump pumps are working properly and have a battery-operated backup
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Ensure your property is graded to direct water away from foundation walls
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Keep road ditches and culverts clear so water drains properly during heavy rainfall
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Make sure downspouts extend at least 2 m (6 ft) away from basement walls
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Use a rain barrel to collect runoff from your roof
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Do not walk through flood water
These actions can help reduce damage and improve safety during flood events.
If flooding occurs, your safety should be your first priority. The steps below outline who to contact based on the cause of flooding.
1. Report flooding based on the cause
Different organizations respond depending on the source of flooding.
Rising water levels (rivers, streams, lakes):
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Contact 3-1-1 Halton Region
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Contact Conservation Halton
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In an emergency, call 9-1-1
Overland flooding (blocked culverts, ditches, catch basins, or construction-related issues):
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Contact the Town of Milton’s Operations Services at 905-878-7252 ext.2500 or through the Operations contact form
Water backup (sewer flooding into your home):
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Contact 3-1-1 Halton Region for assistance
2. Contact your insurance provider
If your home has flood damage, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Your insurer can guide you through the next steps, including assessment and claims.
Stormwater Management Master Plan
Flood hazard mapping is a decision-making tool used to support the safe development of land in Milton. Learn more about flood hazard mapping and how it may affect properties in flood-prone areas.
Conservation Halton’s role includes:
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Regulating development through planning and permitting
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Flood forecasting and warning
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Public education
You can check current conditions through Conservation Halton’s Flood Status updates.
Halton Region is responsible for:
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Emergency preparedness and management
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Public education
Important regional resources include:
The Town of Milton is responsible for:
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Emergency preparedness
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Emergency response to help safeguard people and property
The Province of Ontario supports flood management through:
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The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry
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Coordinating response for large-scale flood events
Learn more through Ontario’s Flooding Strategy.
Environment Canada provides weather monitoring and alerts. Residents are encouraged to monitor or subscribe to weather alerts through Environment Canada or trusted weather apps and services.