Current Watershed Conditions
Flood Outlook Statement
Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority (SSMRCA)
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Watershed Condition Status - Water Safety Statement
Posted: Mar 29, 2022

Watershed Condition Status - Water Safety Statement

The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority is issuing a water safety 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 system is forecast to bring significant mixed precipitation on Wednesday and Thursday. Area watershed forecast indicates 25-35 mm of rainfall, freezing rain and 5-10 cm snowfall. The daytime high temperatures forecasted in single digits (0 to 3 0C) and nighttime lows near or below 0 degrees. Considerable uncertainty remains regarding the timing and amount of snow, ice pellets and freezing rain.

The snowpack measurements across the watershed are averaging a snow depth of 70-90 cm. The water equivalent or the amount of water contained in the snowpack is averaging 250 mm. This water content is significantly above the long-term average for this time of year.

Forecasted warm temperature and rainfall will help to melt the existing snowpack. Currently, local rivers, creeks and streams are flowing at normal levels. Snowmelt, warmer temperatures and runoff from the rainfall will cause levels and flows to rise across the watershed. There may be localized flooding in low-lying areas.

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.

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 April 05, 2022.