Flood watch in effect for areas in and around Sault Ste. Marie

The Ministry of Natural Resources in Sault Ste. Marie/Blind River District said Tuesday a flood watch is in effect for the area until April 22.

“Residents throughout the district, especially those located in the Goulais River watershed area, should keep a close watch on water conditions and stay away from fast-moving rivers

and streams," the MNR said in a news release.

“Residents within the Goulais River watershed are advised that river conditions should be monitored closely as water levels can change very quickly with runoff from the recent melting and rainfall events.”

Further updates will be issued as appropriate, the MNR said, adding it is “closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions.”

Daytime temperatures are expected to reach 8 C, falling to around the freezing mark overnight.

Still lots of snow to melt

“This pattern will contribute to ongoing melting and runoff,” the MNR said.

“Water levels and stream flows across the region are elevated from spring snow melt and recent precipitation events. The depth of snowpack throughout the district remains high, especially in areas lying north of Searchmont and Goulais River.”

Above-average snowpack measurements have been measured at around 95 cm, with an average water equivalent exceeding 200 mm in the northern portion of the watershed.

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“Currently water levels and flows for the Goulais River are below flood critical threshold parameters but currently rising,” the MNR said.

“Risks may include fast-moving frigid water with rapidly changing conditions. Localized flooding in low-lying areas with a history of flooding are a possibility. A close watch on local forecasts and conditions is recommended.”

A flood watch is issued when a potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities.