Conservation Sudbury is issuing a Flood Watch for the Wanapitei River downstream of Wanapitei Lake.
A Water Safety message is being issued for all other watercourses within the City of Greater Sudbury. Both statements took effective beginning Nov. 14 at 6 p.m. and will remain in effect until Nov. 20 at 10 a.m.
A significant low-pressure system is forecast to bring heavy rain to northeast Ontario beginning Saturday night and extending well into Monday morning. Up to 60 mm are expected to fall before the rain transitions to snow Sunday evening.
Currently, flows on all watercourses are seasonal except the Wanapitei River. The Wanapitei River has higher than normal flows and will remain elevated for some time. Higher levels and faster-flowing water is to be expected in all watercourses If the forecasted rainfall is received over the next 36 hours. The inundation of low-lying areas, adjacent to watercourses with a history of flooding may occur.
The developing conditions must be closely monitored by all residents especially those living in known low-lying, hazard areas where overland flooding or ponding could become an issue.
Public safety is absolutely the number one priority, especially for children who may be attracted to the edge of creeks or rivers. The cold, fast flowing water must be avoided. Stream banks will be very slippery and unsafe and must be avoided.
Conservation Sudbury remains in direct contact with the City of Greater Sudbury (CGS), Ontario Power Generation (OPG) and all other partners as required. Staff continues with the monitoring of
water levels and updates will be provided as required.
