(supplied)

The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority would like to issue a statement to residents in regard to current watershed conditions.

A Colorado low is forecast to move in to the area Sunday around noon and continue through to Tuesday morning. This system is currently indicating that there is a potential for 30 – 60 mm of rainfall in Sault Ste. Marie with higher amounts in the surrounding area.

Local rivers have shown a slight increase in flow with recent rain events, water levels in area rivers and creeks are flowing well and are within seasonal norms. The ground is saturated due to recent rainfalls and the precipitation is anticipated to runoff to catch basins, rivers and streams.

The flood control channels owned and maintained by the Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority are flowing well and have a large volume capacity. If 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.

At this time we do not anticipate flooding of rivers or streams however there may be localized flooding in low lying areas with poor drainage.

The City of Sault Ste. Marie’s Public Works and Transportation Department (PWT) is asking for the assistance of city residents in keeping their neighbourhood storm drains clear of debris. Residents are reminded that leaves and other debris on roadways have the potential to plug storm drains, resulting in an increase flooding potential.

Residents should take caution when in close proximity of drainage systems. Parents should ensure children and pets are kept away from these hazardous areas.

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 will be updated Sunday December 13, 2015.

—