Conservation Sudbury has issued a watershed conditions statement for April 23 that will be in effect for the next week.
The statement falls into the second of five categories – water safety - for all parts of the Greater Sudbury watersheds effective 11 a.m. on Monday, April 23.
Conservation Sudbury issues five types of messages depending on water conditions, with Tuesday's statement landing in the second of the five categories, which are as follows:
- Normal: No flood conditions to report
- Water safety: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
- Flood outlook: 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.
- Flood watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
- Flood warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities
The current Environment Canada forecast for the rest of the week indicates warmer temperatures during the day and cooler at night with no significant precipitation in sight. The northern portions of the watersheds still have snow pack with significant water content.
Water levels and flows on all water courses are already high due to recent thaw and are expected to rise in the coming days. Expect higher and faster-flowing water in most watercourses. The developing conditions must be closely monitored by all residents especially those living in known low-lying, hazard areas where overland flooding could become an issue.
Residents in the city of Greater Sudbury who may experience problems due to overland runoff or flooding should call 3-1-1. The service operates 24 hours a day.
"Public safety is absolutely the number one priority, especially for children who may be attracted to the edge of creeks or rivers," said a news release from Conservation Sudbury.
"The cold, fast flowing water must be avoided. Stream banks will be very slippery and unsafe, and must be avoided. Open water areas along the edges of ice-covered lakes will continue to widen and these must also be avoided."
Conservation Sudbury staff continue their monitoring of water levels and updates will be provided as required. For more information visit conservationsudbury.ca.
