Sunday morning update on Goulais River

The following advisory on Goulais River watershed conditions was released Sunday morning by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

As of 9 a.m. Sunday, there've been no reports of residential flooding on the Goulais River.

"Water levels on the Goulais River have decreased slightly overnight. This is increasing the risk of jams forming as ice sheets drop and cause them to break," says Andre Dupont, emergency information officer.

"During our helicopter flight yesterday, it was observed that Goulais Bay and the mouth of the river are still frozen. Ice was generally observed from the mouth up to Kirby’s Corners with the exception of some straight areas on the river that were open," Dupont said.

"An ice jam has been observed near Groth Road upstream of Kirby’s Corners. It was approximately one kilometre in length and was flooding low-lying areas but no residential buildings were affected.

"From the ice jam to almost Searchmont, the river can be described as open with large sheet ice making thier way downstream. River areas around the community of Searchmont are still ice covered except at the bridge.

"MNR staff will be flying the river again this afternoon. If there are any new developments we will issue an updated media release."

************************* Flows and levels on the Goulais River have not increased yet from the snowfall received yesterday.

It is expected that conditions will change given the number of variables this year including snow melt, ice and changing weather forecasts.

This can occur quickly.

The lower portion of the river near the mouth has a lower water level.

This may increase the risk of ice jams forming as the ice sheets continue to break up.

The river is below flood critical levels at this point.

Ice break up is continuing to occur and is making its way downstream to the mouth of the river.

Over the next several days, daytime air temperatures will rise and will encourage snow melt and runoff.

Snow melt coupled with saturated snow pack may increase the chances of localized flooding due to increased flow. Ice in the 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.

Goulais Bay and the mouth of the river are still frozen.

This can cause ice jamming as the ice may have problems moving into Lake Superior.

Although the levels have not increased it is expected that increased flows and levels will begin to happen mid week as a result of the warm air mass moving through the area.

The snow pack in the watershed is extremely saturated this year from rain and recent snow events.

This will cause increased runoff.

Residents along the river should monitor conditions closely.

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 option 8.

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

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