Warmer weather could lead to localized flooding this week, conservation authority warns

Be aware of localized flooding this week, the Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority (SSMRCA) warns in a news release issued today.

With warmer temperatures and rain in the forecast for later this week, the existing snow is expected to melt, causing water levels and flows to rise across the watershed. This may lead to localized flooding in areas with poor drainage.

The SSMRCA urges people to stay away, as well as keep children and pets away, from the flood control channels and all waterways, as water flows can be especially dangerous and stream banks can be slippery.

This statement is in effect until March 15, 2021.

The full release is as 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 for Tuesday to Friday indicates a warming temperature of +6°C with a chance of up to 15-20 mm of rainfall on Wednesday.

The snowpack measurements across the watershed are averaging a snow depth of 40-50 cm. The water equivalent or the amount of water contained in the snowpack is averaging 125 mm. This water content is not above the long-term average for this time of year. The snow surveys and measurements are completed every two weeks by the conservation authority in areas not affected by snow compaction or plowing.

Forecasted warm temperatures and rainfall will help to melt the existing snowpack. Currently, local rivers, creeks and streams are flowing at normal levels. Snowmelt, warmer temperatures and runoff from the rainfall will cause levels and flows to rise across the watershed. There may be localized flooding in areas with poor drainage.

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 channels will be cold and fast flowing during and after the 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 March 15, 2021.