Flood risk still high, says MNR

NEWS RELEASE MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES ************************* The Ministry of Natural Resources – Sault Ste. Marie District is advising area residents that a Watershed Conditions Statement - Flood Outlook is in effect for the District.

NEWS RELEASE

MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES

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The Ministry of Natural Resources – Sault Ste. Marie District is advising area residents that a Watershed Conditions Statement - Flood Outlook is in effect for the District.

Residents of the Sault Ste. Marie District should keep a close watch on conditions, regularly check for updated messages and stay away from fast-moving rivers and streams. Residents within the District are advised that the risk of flooding is High throughout the District and that some areas are already experiencing flood conditions.

MNR is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions.

Further updates will be issued as appropriate.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Description of Weather System

Recent precipitation compiled with snow melt has led to extremely high water levels in some area streams and rivers. Forecasted precipitation for the next two days is 10-20mm with an additional 10-15mm in thunderstorm areas. Daytime high temperatures will be between 10 to 15 degrees for much of the District.

Description of Current Conditions

Forecast precipitation and warm temperatures throughout the next two days may increase flows and levels within the District exacerbating any existing flooding issues. A close watch on local forecasts and conditions is recommended.

Expiry Date:

This message will expire on Friday, May 16 2014, 12:00 AM

Terminology: Notification Levels

WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT - FLOOD OUTLOOK: gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions

WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY: indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers and swimmers but flooding is not expected.

FLOOD WATCH: potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities

FLOOD WARNING: flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.

A close watch on local conditions and weather forecasts from Environment Canada is recommended.

Environment Canada bulletins can be found at http://weather.gc.ca/

The Surface Water Monitoring Centre public webpage can be found here: www.ontario.ca/flooding

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