Flood warning continues through weekend

The MNRF – North Bay District is continuing its flood warning to the residents in the Lake Nipissing-Lake Temagami-Sturgeon River-Upper French River areas.

"Residents in these areas should keep a close watch on conditions and exercise caution around shorelines and low-lying areas," says a news release.

A Colorado Low-pressure system has moved into the province, bringing showers and periods of rain to the northeastern region.  This system will move through the province and will continue to bring unsettled weather for the next three days across much of the province.

Over the next five days, most watersheds in the northeastern regions are forecast to receive accumulated rainfall amounts between 15 and 30 mm.

Very high-water levels exist from Lake Temagami down to the Upper French River. They continue to be elevated due to runoff generated by weather systems over the past few weeks. Forecast rainfall over the next five days is expected to maintain or slow the decrease in water levels and flows as these watersheds drain. 

Lake Nipissing water levels are high, today’s average level on the lake was measured at 196.22m which is right at the ‘non-damage’ level of 196.22m. Flooding has been reported along the shoreline of Lake Nipissing with water levels rising onto properties.

The Upper French River area is currently seeing high water and rising river levels. The current level at Wolseley Bay is 188.32m which has exceeded the current flood limit. The current level at Dry Pine Bay is 182.85m. Residents along the river will continue to see impacts from high water levels.

Sturgeon River water levels are currently within normal operating ranges but are expected to see an increase with the forecast rainfall over the weekend and into next week.

Lake Temagami water levels are high and have started to enter the flood allowance. The current lake level is 294.01m.

Municipalities, residents and visitors, especially those in low-lying areas and along shorelines, are encouraged to monitor conditions and prepare accordingly. Shorelines and banks adjacent to waterbodies are very slippery and unstable at this time and when combined with cold, fast flowing water, pose a serious hazard.

Structures such as homes, boat houses and docks could be at risk of flooding if located near lake/river level. Residents in these areas are encouraged to monitor conditions and prepare accordingly.

A flood warning means flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.