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Growing risks near and around area watercourses

'The water is cold and streambanks will be slippery so they could pose a safety hazard'
flooding chippewa creek 1 turl 2015
File photo. Chippewa Creek high water levels. Photo by Jeff Turl.

Above-average snow levels, warming temperatures and forecast rain have prompted the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority to issue a Water Safety statement.

There is concern over the growing risks near and around area watercourses.

“The anticipated 15mm of rainfall combined with a melting snowpack with a water content that is 1,500 per cent of normal for this time of year, will increase runoff to area lakes and watercourses," said Kurtis Romanchuk, NBMCA Duty Officer. "The water is cold and streambanks will be slippery so they could pose a safety hazard,”

See: Snow depth way above average for this time of year says Authority

Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from watercourses and water bodies.

Water levels on watercourses with NBMCA’s jurisdiction are generally within average ranges for this time of year, with the exception of Lake Nipissing which remains above its seasonable average. Flooding is not anticipated however water is likely to accumulate on roadways, parking lots and flat or low-lying areas.

The current forecast for the North Bay-Mattawa area is 15mm of precipitation tomorrow, expected to come mainly as rain, with a high around 4 degrees. Only trace precipitation is expected over the following few days, with highs returning to at or below freezing.

All residents, especially those in low-lying areas, are encouraged to monitor the conditions that are developing. 


Jeff Turl

About the Author: Jeff Turl

Jeff is a veteran of the news biz. He's spent a lengthy career in TV, radio, print and online, covering both news and sports. He enjoys free time riding motorcycles and spoiling grandchildren.
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