SRCA Supplied by the Sault Region Conservation Authority…
Issued April 8, 2015 @ 3:00 pm
The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority would like to issue a statement to residents in regard to current watershed conditions. Melting of the snowpack has been slow and steady. The depth of the snowpack throughout the watershed has decreased moderately. There remains a higher degree of snow in the northern portion of the watershed which is a normal spring condition.
The weather forecast indicates a precipitation system is approaching the area on Thursday April 9th which may bring 10 to 20 mm of rain.
Temperatures from Thursday onward are forecast in the 4o to 12o C range.
Warmer day time temperatures over the past several days have melted some of the snow pack in watershed, without contributing substantially to stream flows. Water levels in local rivers and streams are currently well below critical flood levels. Water levels will continue to increase as snow melt continues and if the forecasted precipitation is received. The amount of runoff anticipated from this rain event and warmer temperatures is expected to raise water levels but stream flooding is not anticipated at this time. 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 flowing well and melt water is entering the system. As melt continues and anticipated rainfalls are received, 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 is extremely cold and fast flowing waters are dangerous.
The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority will continue to closely monitor stream flows across the watershed.
The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority would like to extend a warning to residents and visitors to use extreme caution when close to rivers, creeks and channels. Potential increases in water levels and flows can be especially dangerous and stream banks can be slippery. Please keep children and pets away from fast flowing rivers, streams and channels.
This statement is in effect until Wednesday April 15, 2015.