Current Watershed Conditions

Rivers & Streams

Watershed Condition Status - Flood Outlook

Issued March 8, 2024@ 11:00 am

The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority is issuing a flood outlook statement to residents regarding current watershed conditions. Flood forecasting and warning are part of the Conservation Authority’s provincially mandated responsibilities. This statement is sent out so that residents can be informed and aware.

A low-pressure system will be bringing significant rain and mixed precipitation today through Sunday. Area watershed forecast indicates 25-30 mm rainfall possible tonight through Saturday. Water levels and flows in local watercourses are within the average range. Minimal snow cover is reported in the upper reaches of the watershed which is substantially below normal for this time of year.

Forecasted rain, combined with wet or partially frozen ground, will produce moderate runoff. Currently, local rivers, creeks and streams are flowing at normal levels. Although no widespread flooding is expected at this time, water levels and flows in rivers and lakes will increase, and flooding in low-lying areas and areas with poor drainage is possible.

The flood control channels owned and maintained by the Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority are currently flowing at normal levels. The flood control channels will experience a rise in water levels. It is important to remember that the water in rivers, streams and the channels will be cold and fast flowing during and after the storm event.

The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority will continue to closely monitor stream flows across the watershed and update this message based on the changing weather/streamflow conditions.

Residents and visitors are urged to stay away from the flood control channels and all waterways. Flows can be especially dangerous and stream banks can be slippery. Please keep children and pets away from waterways during this time.

This statement is in effect until March 15, 2024.

 

 
Lake Superior Shoreline - Normal
 
 
The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority would like to extend a warning to residents and visitors to use extreme caution when close to rivers, creeks and channels. Potential increases in water levels and flows can be especially dangerous and stream banks can be slippery. Please keep children and pets away from fast flowing rivers and streams.
 

For further information contact: 

Anjum Amin, P.Eng. 
SSMRCA 
aamin@ssmrca.ca
705-946-8530