With plenty of rain in the forecast, the Ministry of Natural Resources continues to be on high alert with potential flooding in the Goulais River areas.
Today, the MNR released another statement of the situation.
Residents of the Sault Ste. Marie District should keep a close watch on conditions, regularly check for updated messages and stay away from fast-moving rivers and streams.
Residents within the Goulais River Watershed are advised that although the ice went out on the river late last week, and ice jams are no longer a concern, the risk of flooding remains high as there is still a large amount of snow remaining in the watershed which could lead to flood conditions.
MNR is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.
Description of Weather System
In the next few days a Colorado type Low Pressure System will move into the Sault Ste. Marie area. Rainfall in the amounts of 20 to 35 mm is forecast. There is an additional risk of thunderstorms associated with this system in the 5 to 10 mm range. Day time temperature highs will be 5 to 10 degrees for much of the northeast
Description of Current Conditions
The snow pack within the district still remains high. The recent warmer temperatures have increased the snow melt. Stream flows across the District remain high due to recent snow melt. It is expected that an upward trend in flows will continue over the next several days especially if the forecasted rain and thunderstorms materializes. A close watch on local forecasts and conditions is recommended.
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.
A close watch on local conditions and weather forecasts from Environment Canada is recommended.
