Watershed Condition Status – Flood Outlook Statement
.jpg)
Issued April 3, 2023 @ 2:30 p.m.
The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority is issuing a Flood Outlook Statement for area residents regarding current watershed conditions and forecasted weather. 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 weather system is forecast to bring significant mixed precipitation on Tuesday evening to Wednesday night. The forecast indicates 5-10 mm of freezing rain, and 20-40 mm of rainfall for the local area. Daytime high temperatures forecasted will be in the single digits (2 to 8°C) and nighttime lows near or below 0 degrees.
Snowpack measurements across the watershed are averaging a snow depth of 60-70 cm. The water equivalent or the amount of water contained in the snowpack is averaging 125 mm. This water content is slightly above the long-term average for this time of year.
Forecasted warmer weather 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 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 update messages based on the changing weather/streamflow conditions.
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 10, 2023.
###
For further information contact:
Anjum Amin, P.Eng.
SSMRCA
aamin@ssmrca.ca
705-946-8530