Conservation Sudbury issued a water safety statement for the Greater Sudbury watersheds effective as of 3 p.m. today. This statement will remain in effect until 2 p.m. March 22.
“The current Environment Canada forecast for the rest of the week and into early next week indicates warm temperatures nearing 10o C with light precipitation,” Conservation Sudbury said in a news release. “Warmer temperatures will accelerate the rate of snowmelt, resulting in a sudden rise in water levels and flows.”
All watersheds within the city limits still have a significant snowpack, the statement reads, holding “anywhere between 100 and 150 mm of water content.”
Water levels and flows are in the normal, seasonal range at the moment, but the warm weather and rain could cause localized ponding on streets and other low-lying areas.
“Public safety is the No. 1 priority, especially for children who may be attracted to the edge of creeks or rivers,” Conservation Sudbury stated. “The cold, fast-flowing water must be avoided. Stream banks will be very slippery and unsafe, and must be avoided. Any open-water areas will continue to widen and these must also be avoided.”
Residents, especially those in low-lying, flood-prone areas, are encouraged to monitor conditions in their area closely.
“Conservation Sudbury remains in direct contact with the City of Greater Sudbury and all other partners as required. Conservation Sudbury staff continues with the monitoring of water levels; updates will be provided as required.
