Flood warning in effect near Blind River

NEWS RELEASE
MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND FORESTRY
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The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – Sault Ste. Marie District is advising Blind River-area residents that a flood warning is in effect in the district until Friday, May 3, 2019

Residents along the Blind River system should keep a close watch on conditions, regularly check for updated messages and stay away from fast-moving rivers and streams. Residents within the Blind River watershed are advised that the risk of flooding is high and that some low-lying areas are already experiencing flood conditions.

The ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.

Description of Weather System

Daytime temperatures will remain seasonal but below average for Thursday and Friday with temperatures between 5-10 degrees and will continue to melt the remaining snow pack. Rain is forecast to commence today and will continue through to Thursday evening. This rain is expected to bring an additional 10-20 mm of water into area water systems.

Description of Current Conditions

The recent warmer temperatures had increased water levels and flows last week in some of the District’s watersheds with the melting of much of the heavy snow pack. Flood levels experienced last week have been receding slowly over the past couple of days but remain high.

Residents within the Blind River watershed are advised that the risk of flooding is High and that some low lying areas are already experiencing flood conditions. Flooding is possible or already occurring in some low lying areas and runoff from melting snow and rain may temporarily increase water flows and levels over the next few days.

Other residents of the Sault Ste. Marie District are advised that low lying areas may also be near flood levels. A close watch on local forecasts and conditions is recommended.

Definitions

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.

Learn More:

• Surface Water Monitoring Centre public webpage
• Environment Canada bulletins: www.weather.gc.ca
• A close watch on local conditions and weather forecasts from Environment Canada is recommended.

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