Watershed Condition Status – Flood Outlook
.jpg)
Issued April 12, 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 Colorado Low will move into the province late Wednesday, into Thursday bringing significant precipitation to the local area. Precipitation accumulations for the 5-day forecast period range from 30 to 60 mm.
A Warm temperature trend and forecasted precipitation will result in a continuation of the spring melt. Elevated runoff is expected 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 19, 2022.