The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – Sudbury District is advising area residents that a watershed conditions statement - flood outlook is in effect in the district until Friday, April 26.
Residents of Sudbury, Alban, Markstay-Warren, Wanup, St. Charles, Espanola, Manitoulin Island, areas of the North-shore and the unorganized Townships south of Sudbury should keep a close watch on conditions, regularly check for updated messages and stay away from fast-moving rivers and streams.
The ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions.
Beginning Wednesday evening a Colorado moved into the region and brought with it some light rain. The rain will increase Thursday and carry over into Friday, with the possibility of localized thunderstorms.
Temperatures over the next several days will range from daytime highs of 10 degrees C with the evening lows remaining at or slightly above zero. Total rainfall values through the next couple of days and into the weekend are anticipated to total 40mm.
While there has been some melting of the snowpack in urban areas, there is still a significant amount of snow left in the bush and in northern areas of local watersheds.
Streams and rivers are elevated but within seasonal norms, flows are expected to increase with the incoming precipitation which may result in flooding in low-lying areas.
Further updates will be issued as appropriate.
Definitions:
- Watershed conditions statement – Flood outlook: gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions
- Watershed conditions statement – Water safety: indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers and swimmers but flooding is not expected.
- Flood watch: Potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities
- Flood warning: Flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.
