In response to all the rain, with more to come, the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority is warning of flooding.
"The heavy precipitation over the last 24 hours and in the forecast, together with the water from the melting snowpack, has resulted in increased water levels and flows of creeks and streams throughout the watershed," says a news release from the Authority.
Flood Warning notifies that flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take action to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.
“Water levels are high and rising, in some instances above the banks. Rain is expected to continue tonight and Friday with an additional 30mm forecasted,” said Kurtis Romanchuk, NBMCA’s Duty officer.
Chippewa Creek is currently above its 1 in 5 year level and is continuing to rise along with other urbanized waterways such as Parks and Pinewood Parkway Creek. These urban creeks experience peak water levels more quickly. Rural watercourses tend to respond more slowly, however, flooding may be occurring or imminent in low-lying areas. Flooding is expected to be minor.
Lake Nipissing has been rising but is not expected to flood at this time. As the snow and water content in the upper watershed release and make their way to the lake, we may see some changes there in the next week. As the ice on the lakes rises, it may pose challenges for shorelines and shoreline structures.
Ice and water flow conditions are already hazardous and conditions will become even more so wherever creeks or rivers enter lakes. Areas of open water near lakes are expected to expand. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks become very slippery with precipitation and melting conditions, and areas of open water near lakes are expected to expand due to the incoming rainfall and snowmelt. Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from watercourses and waterbodies.
All residents, especially those in low lying areas and along waterways are encouraged to monitor the conditions that are developing. Municipalities are encouraged to monitor water crossings to ensure the continual movement of water through culverts and bridges.
