Supplied by the Sault Region Conservation Authority…
Issued October 10, 2019 @ 12:30 am
The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority (SSMRCA) would like to issue a
watershed conditions statement to residents in regard to current watershed conditions.
Flood forecasting and warning is part of the Conservation Authority’s provincially
mandated responsibilities. This statement is sent out so that residents can be informed
and aware.
A Flood Outlook Statement is early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather
forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt high wind or other conditions that could lead to
high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.
An intensifying low-pressure system from the US Prairie Region will move into the province
bringing significant amounts of precipitation to the Sault Ste Marie area on Friday.
Forecasted rainfall is 20 to 40 mm on Friday to areas north and east of Lake Superior and
the Far North. Saturday 10 to 20 mm is forecasted to areas north of Lake Superior.
Sunday could see an additional 10 mm of rainfall to areas east of Lake Superior. A
cumulative 5-day total rainfall in the region could range from 50 to 80 mm due to this
system.
Currently, local rivers, creeks and streams are flowing at normal levels. Forecasted rainfall
will cause levels and flows to rise across the watershed. There may be localized flooding in
areas with poor drainage. SSMRCA is encouraging local residents, specifically ones in
low-lying areas and along shorelines, to monitor conditions and prepare accordingly.
Flooding can be expected in vulnerable high-water locations in the region. Stream flows
could be high over the long weekend and into next week due to the widespread rainfall
associated with this system.
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 fast flowing. The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation
Authority will continue to closely monitor levels and 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, streams and shorelines.
High water levels, flows, and waves can be especially dangerous and stream banks can
be slippery. Please keep children and pets away from fast flowing rivers and streams.
This statement is in effect until Friday October 18, 2019.