Watershed Condition Status – Water Safety Statement

Posted: Dec 29, 2022

Watershed Condition Status – Water Safety Statement

  

Issued December 29, 2022 @ 1:00 pm

 

The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority is issuing a Water Safety Statement for area 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.

The weather forecast indicates Daytime temperatures for Thursday, December 29^th to Sunday, January 1^st are expected to be 0°C to +5°C with overnight temperatures remaining below freezing. A light rain (1-5 mm) is expected for the area watershed. Areas within our watershed containing deeper snow accumulations will absorb the majority of the forecasted precipitation and will be retained within the snowpack.

Currently, local rivers, creeks, and streams are flowing at normal levels. Forecasted daytime highs and precipitation could elevate flows and levels across the watershed. No major flooding is expected at this time. However, some watercourses may reach or exceed their banks, leading to localized flooding in floodplains, low lying areas, and areas with poor drainage.

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 and updates will be provided as required.

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 (or updated before) January 5, 2023.

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