Rain, warm weather could lead to flooding, warns Conservation Authority

With rain and warm temperatures in the forecast for the rest of the week, the Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority (SSMRCA) is warning residents that the resulting runoff may result in flooding in low-lying areas.

"The flood control channels will experience a rise in water levels," the SSMRCA stated in a news release issued today. "It is important to remember that the water in rivers, streams and the channels will be cold and fast flowing during and after a rainfall event."

Full text of the news release follows:

The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority would like to issue a water safety statement to residents regarding current watershed conditions.

The weather forecast indicates light to moderate rainfall for next five days. Total rainfall amounts of 30 to 40 mm are expected. Daytime high temperatures are forecasted in the range of 10 to 15 0C. The upper reaches of all watersheds within the City of Sault Ste. Marie still have a light to moderate snowpack that holds 40 to 50 mm of water content.

Warm temperatures and forecast precipitation will result in the continuation of the spring melt and produce runoff across the watershed. Currently, local rivers, creeks and streams are flowing at normal levels. The precipitation forecast combined with snowmelt will contribute to significant runoff to rivers and streams resulting in potential for flooding of 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 the channels will be cold and fast flowing during and after a rainfall event.

The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority will continue to closely monitor stream flows across the watershed.

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 13, 2021.