Hurricanes

October 14 – 15, 1954, Hurricane Hazel caused flooding from Lake Simcoe to Toronto and from the Niagara region to Lake St. Clair.  More than 7,472 people were evacuated and 81 people died.  Low lying areas were underwater, bridges and homes were washed away.  Although this was many years ago when people were not as prepared and emergency services personnel were not as educated and equipped as they are today; we need to keep this event in our mind…anything is possible.  Would you know what to do if we were faced with another hurricane?

One of the benefits of living in Innisfil is that you are close to Lake Simcoe; this however would be a concern if the area was issued a hurricane warning.  After the hurricane in 1954 mapping was created which identified properties in low lying areas which were more prone to flooding than others.  These properties are under the authority of the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority or the Nottawasaga Conservation Authority (depending on the location of the property).  These agencies regulate any changes that may be requested or occurring to properties within their jurisdiction.  By regulating and reviewing changes to the grade in these areas, the agencies can help protect the surrounding lands.  It is the Conservation Authorities that monitor water levels and issue flood warnings to the affected areas.

Although it has been well over 50 years since a hurricane has affected Innisfil residents; in keeping with the motto “Prepare Today for a Safer Tomorrow” staff would recommend that if you live along the water or within a low lying area that you take the time to investigate how to prepare for such an event by visiting the Government of Canada’s Website Get Prepared.ca.  Further information has also been provided on the Town’s website under flooding.