Flood Watch
Issued December 3, 2017 @ 11:00 am
The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority is issuing a Flood Watch for the Sault
Ste. Marie area watershed.
The Sault Ste. Marie area is forecast to receive 30 – 50 mm of rain between Monday and
Tuesday. Additionally, there is a potential for some locally heavier amounts of rain that
could reach 70 mm.
Currently, local rivers, creeks and streams are flowing at normal levels. Because of the
consistent rainfall over the past few weeks, the ground is saturated and the predicted
rainfall will result in direct runoff. The predicted rainfall will cause water levels and flows to
rise across the watershed.
Localized flooding in areas with poor drainage is anticipated if the forecast precipitation
amounts are received.
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 fast flowing during and after the rainfall events.
The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority will continue to closely monitor stream
flows across the watershed.
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 streams.
High 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.
This statement is in effect until December 5, 2017.
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For further information:
Rhonda Bateman, General Manager
SSMRCA 705-946-8530 ext. 1005