FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Watershed Condition Status – Flood Outlook Statement

Issued March 18, 2025 @ 11:30 am

The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority (SSMRCA) is issuing a flood outlook statement to inform residents of current watershed conditions. Flood forecasting and warnings are a key part of the SSMRCA’s provincially mandated responsibilities, and this statement aims to raise awareness of potential flooding risks in the region.

The weather forecast indicates mild temperatures over the next five days, with daytime highs ranging from 0 to 10 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is expected, with totals estimated to be between 20 and 25 mm.

Snowpack measurements show snow depths ranging from 50 to 75 cm, with an average water equivalent of 100 to 150 mm or more in the northern portion of the watershed. These figures are significantly higher than the long-term average for this time of year, increasing the likelihood of above-normal runoff due to the anticipated warm weather and rainfall.

Moderate runoff is expected as a result of the warm temperatures and rainfall, which may lead to rising rivers, creeks, and stream levels throughout the watershed. Current stream flows are slightly above normal, and localized flooding may occur in low-lying areas, possibly causing water pooling on roads. Flood control channels managed by the SSMRCA are currently operating at normal levels; however, water levels in these areas are expected to rise.

It is important to note that all rivers, streams, and flood control channels will contain cold, fast-moving water during and after this event. The SSMRCA will continue to monitor stream levels and flows across the region and provide updates as new information becomes available.

Residents and visitors are strongly urged to avoid flood control channels and all waterways. High water levels pose significant hazards, and it is especially important to keep children and pets at a safe distance from these areas.

This statement is in effect until March 25, 2025.

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For further information:

Anjum Amin, P.Eng.

SSMRCA

705-946-8530

 

Rivers & Streams

Watershed Condition Status - Water Safety Statement

Issued December 27, 2024 @ 10:00 am

The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority (SSMRCA) is issuing a water safety statement to inform residents of current watershed conditions. Flood forecasting and warnings are a key part of the SSMRCA’s provincially mandated responsibilities, and this statement aims to raise awareness of potential flooding risks in the region.

The weather forecast for the next five days predicts 15 to 20 mm of rainfall, with freezing rain and mixed precipitation. Daytime high temperatures are expected to be in the low single digits (0°C to 6°C), while nighttime lows will approach or dip below 0°C. These conditions may affect the existing snowpack across the watershed.

Current snowpack measurements show a snow depth ranging from 70 to 90 cm, with an average water equivalent of 95 to 215 mm. This is notably higher than the long-term average for this time of year, which could lead to increased runoff above normal conditions during this weather event.

Due to the forecasted warm temperatures and rainfall, snow melt and runoff will cause river, creek, and stream levels to rise across the watershed. While current stream flows are at normal levels, localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible. Flood control channels managed by the SSMRCA are also operating at normal levels but are expected to experience a rise in water levels.

It is essential to note that the water in all rivers, streams, and flood control channels will be cold and fast flowing during and after this event. The SSMRCA will continue to monitor stream levels and flows throughout the watershed and will provide updates as new information becomes available.

Residents and visitors are strongly urged to stay clear of flood control channels and all waterways. High water levels pose significant hazards, and it is particularly important to keep children and pets at a safe distance from these areas.

This statement is in effect until January 03, 2025.

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For further information:

Anjum Amin, P.Eng.

SSMRCA

705-946-8530