Watershed Condition Status – Flood Outlook Statement

Posted: Apr 05, 2022

Watershed Condition Status – Flood Outlook Statement

Issued April 05, 2022 @ 3:00 pm

 

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 system is forecast to bring warm temperatures and significant spring precipitation on Wednesday. The area watershed will receive 25-35 mm of rainfall with daytime high temperatures in the single digits and nighttime lows near or below 0 degrees.

 

The snowpack measurements across the watershed are averaging a snow depth of 70-80 cm. A significant snowpack remains in the watershed with 100 to over 200 mm of water equivalent, which equates to 120 to over 150 percent of normal for this time of the year.

 

A warm temperature trend and forecasted precipitation will result in a continuation of spring melt and produce runoff across the watershed. Currently, local rivers, creeks and streams are flowing at normal levels. The forecasted precipitation combined with snowmelt will contribute significant runoff to rivers and streams resulting in the potential for flooding of 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 rainfall 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 message will be in effect until (or updated before) April 12, 2022

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