Statement from the Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority…
Issued March 18, 2020 @ 12:30 pm
The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority would like to issue a water safety statement
to residents regarding current watershed conditions in area rivers and streams.
The weather forecast for Thursday indicates a warming temperature of +4°C with a chance of
15-20 mm of rainfall.
The snowpack measurements across the watershed are averaging a snow depth of 50-70 cm.
The water equivalent or the amount of water contained in the snowpack is averaging 232 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.
Much of the anticipated precipitation will be absorbed into the existing snowpack but some
runoff will occur with the associated warm temperatures.
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 the 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. High water levels and 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 27, 2020.