Flood risk rising for parts of Greater Sudbury area

Flood outlook issued for parts of Greater Sudbury Conservation Sudbury has issued a flood outlook for the lower Wanapitei River area including Wahnapitae, St. Cloud and Wanup.

Conservation Sudbury has raised the flood risk level for parts of the Greater Sudbury area.

Conservation officials said in a statement Friday, that a flood outlook warning for the lower Wanapitei River will be in place until April 12.

A flood outlook is an early notice warning for potential flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion, according to Conservation Sudbury.

“Water levels in the Wanapitei River are increasing from a combination of the recent precipitation and snowmelt taking place in the upper reaches of the river,” said the conservation authority.

“With warmer weather in the forecast, levels will continue to rise as the snowmelt progresses and are expected to stay elevated for some time.”

Officials said residents living in the Wahnapitae, St. Cloud and Wanup areas should closely monitor developing water conditions where riverine flooding could become an issue.

“Staff are working with local water management officials so that downstream flow through Wanup may be limited whenever possible by utilizing upstream reservoirs to absorb increased water,” said Conservation Sudbury.

Sudbury Conservation said its staff are in regular contact with the City of Greater Sudbury and other partners are engaged as required.

“Everyone is reminded to use caution around cold, fast-flowing waters. Riverbanks may be unsafe after a high-water event and should be avoided whenever possible,” said the conservation authority.

“Public safety is the top priority, especially for children who may be attracted to the edges of lakes and rivers.”

Staff said water level monitoring is ongoing and updates will be provided “when necessary,” current conditions can be checked on Conservation Sudbury’s website.