The ultimate guide to flooding in Canada

Flooding is the most frequent and expensive natural disaster in Canada, causing billions of dollars in damage each year. Whether it’s caused by heavy rainfall, coastal storms, or river overflows, floodwaters can devastate homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

Understanding the risks and taking preventative measures can significantly reduce the impact of flooding on your property. In this guide, we’ll cover the different types of flooding, flood-prone regions, home protection strategies, insurance coverage, and what to do if a flood occurs.

Types of floods in Canada

Flooding in Canada takes various forms depending on geography, weather, and infrastructure. Here are the most common types:

1. River flooding

Rivers and lakes can overflow due to excessive rainfall, snowmelt, or ice jams. This is particularly common in spring, when rapid melting increases water levels in major river systems such as the Red River in Manitoba and the St. Lawrence River in Quebec.

2. Urban flooding

Cities face unique flood risks due to dense infrastructure and limited drainage capacity. Heavy rainfall can overwhelm stormwater systems, leading to water pooling in streets, basements, and underground parking lots. Older neighbourhoods with aging sewer systems are especially vulnerable.

Read our tips on preventing basement flooding to learn how you can safeguard your home.

3. Coastal flooding

Canada’s vast coastline makes many communities vulnerable to storm surges, high tides, and rising sea levels. Atlantic provinces often experience coastal flooding due to strong storms and hurricanes.

4. Flash flooding

This type of flooding occurs when heavy rain falls rapidly over a short period. Flash floods can wash away roads, vehicles, and even buildings within minutes. Areas with steep terrain, such as parts of British Columbia and Alberta, are particularly at risk.

5. Groundwater flooding

Less dramatic but equally destructive, groundwater flooding occurs when underground water levels rise and seep into basements and foundations. This issue is more common in areas with high water tables or prolonged periods of rainfall.

Does home insurance cover flooding?

Many homeowners are unaware that standard home insurance policies do not include flood coverage. However, some insurance providers offer optional coverages that can be added to protect against certain types of flooding and water damage:

1. Overland Water Coverage

This optional add-on covers flooding caused by heavy rain, overflowing rivers, and melting snow. If your home is near a river or in a floodplain, this coverage is highly recommended.

If you are in an area that is prone to flooding, if coverage is offered, it may be limited. Make sure you read your policy documents carefully to understand the coverage you have.

2. Sewer Backup Coverage

Sewer backups can cause extensive water damage and contamination. If heavy rain overwhelms city drainage systems, water can back up into homes. Read more about water damage coverage to your home to ensure you have the right protection.

A mainline backwater valve will help reduce the risk of sewer backup in your home. It’s designed to automatically shut to prevent sewer from backing up into your home.

Does car insurance cover flood damage?

Flooding doesn’t just impact homes—it can also total your vehicle. If your car is caught in a flood, standard collision and liability insurance won’t cover the damage.

To be protected, you need comprehensive car insurance, which covers water damage caused by floods, storms, and other natural disasters. Learn more about car insurance and flood damage.

Whether you’re looking for the right coverage for your car or home, Westland Insurance can help. Reach out today for a new quote or to review your current coverage.

Flood-prone regions in Canada

Certain areas of Canada face a higher risk of flooding due to climate, topography, and proximity to water bodies. Some of the most flood-prone regions include:

• British Columbia: Heavy rain, snowmelt, and coastal storms lead to frequent flooding, particularly in Vancouver, Fraser Valley, and Kelowna.
• The Prairies: Flat landscapes and river networks make cities like Winnipeg, Regina, and Calgary susceptible to river flooding.
• Ontario & Quebec: Major rivers such as the Ottawa and St. Lawrence Rivers experience regular floods, affecting communities in Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal.
• Atlantic Canada: Coastal cities like Halifax, Saint John, and Charlottetown face rising sea levels and hurricane-induced floods.

Regional flood risks in Canada

Flood risks vary by region due to geography and climate. Here’s some region-specific advice for homeowners.

Flooding in British Columbia

Why is BC at risk?

• Heavy rainfall and snowmelt increase flood risks.
• Coastal storms bring storm surges and rising sea levels.
• Mountainous terrain can trigger flash floods and landslides.

How to prepare:

• Keep gutters and storm drains clear.
• Install a sump pump and backwater valve in flood-prone basements.
• Stay updated on Fraser River and Okanagan flood forecasts.
• Be prepared for landslides in steep areas.

Flooding in Alberta

Why is Alberta at risk?

• Heavy spring rain and rapid snowmelt lead to river floods.
• The Bow and Elbow Rivers have caused severe flooding, including the 2013 Calgary flood.

How to prepare:

• Monitor the Alberta River Forecast Centre.
• Store valuables on upper floors.
• Check if your home is near flood-prone areas like High River, Calgary, or Canmore.
• Have an evacuation plan in place.

Flooding in Saskatchewan

Why is Saskatchewan at risk?

• Flat landscapes cause widespread water pooling.
• Spring snowmelt and summer storms increase flooding in cities like Regina and Saskatoon.
• Ice jams along rivers can cause localized floods.

How to prepare:

• Ensure proper land grading around your home.
• Install a backwater valve to prevent sewer backup.
• Stay informed about Saskatchewan’s Flood Watch updates.

Flooding in Manitoba

Why is Manitoba at risk?

• The Red River Valley is one of Canada’s most flood-prone areas.
• Ice jams and spring snowmelt cause annual flooding.
• Major floods, including 1997’s “Flood of the Century,” have impacted thousands of homes.

How to prepare:

• Review flood maps to assess your risk.
• Build sandbag barriers if a Red River flood warning is issued.
• Consider raising your home’s foundation if you live in a high-risk area.

Flooding in Ontario

Why is Ontario at risk?

• Heavy rain and flash floods impact urban centres like Toronto, Ottawa, and Windsor.
• The Ottawa River and Great Lakes pose flood risks.
• Extreme storms are becoming more frequent due to climate change.

How to prepare:

• Upgrade your home’s drainage system.
• Install a sump pump and check for cracks in the foundation.
• Monitor flood alerts.

Flooding in Atlantic Canada

Why is Atlantic Canada at risk?

• Storm surges, hurricanes, and rising sea levels put homes at risk.
• Hurricane Fiona (2022) caused historic flooding in Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and PEI.

How to prepare:

• Secure outdoor items before storms hit.
• Elevate electrical systems to avoid damage.
• Monitor forecasts during hurricane season (June-November).

Protect your home with the right coverage

Flooding can happen anywhere, even in low-risk areas. Ensuring you have the right insurance coverage is key to financial protection when it comes to unexpected flooding and water damage.

Request a quote from Westland Insurance to ensure you have the protection you need to keep your car and home safe, no matter what comes your way.