MNR statement on Goulais River - 11:42 a.m.

NEWS RELEASE

MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES

************************* Goulais River watershed conditions bulletin

The storm system currently moving through the area has produced a substantial amount of rain.

The Goulais River is starting to see some movement of ice and levels at Searchmont and Kirby’s Corners are rising.

Although the Goulais River is below flood critical levels at this point the rainfall produced from the storm combined with snowmelt runoff from a heavy snow load and saturated soil conditions has the potential to create flash flooding.

Ice in the Goulais River is still fairly thick for this time of year and rapid increases in flows can cause the ice to break apart and could result in ice jams.

Local reports indicate that the mouth of the Goulais River is still frozen and this could become problematic for the release of ice moving downstream.

Generally the Goulais River is still ice-covered.

Residents along the Goulais River should monitor conditions closely.

The full impacts of the rainstorm could potentially not be felt for 24 – 48 hours after the storm as the water moves downstream.

The Ministry of Natural Resources continues to monitor river conditions and sensors.

As information becomes available this bulletin will be updated.

Residents wishing to get updates on changing river conditions can contact the Ministry of Natural Resources at 949-1231.

In the event of an emergency caused by flooding residents should call 911 if they require assistance of emergency personnel.

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