Residents and visitors to the Sault are strongly urged to avoid flood control channels and all waterways over the next while.
High water levels pose significant hazards, and it is especially important to keep children and pets at a safe distance from these areas.
So says the Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority (SSMRCA) which issued a flood outlook statement on Tuesday about current watershed conditions.
The SSMRCA said that it is important to note that all rivers, streams, and flood control channels will contain cold, fastmoving water at this time of year.
The SSMRCA said the weather forecast indicates mild temperatures over the next five days, with daytime highs ranging from 0 to 10 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is expected, with totals estimated to be between 20 and 25 mm.
Meanwhile, snowpack measurements show snow depths ranging from 50 to 75 cm, with an average water equivalent of 100 to 150 mm or more in the northern portion of the watershed.
"These figures are significantly higher than the long-term average for this time of year, increasing the likelihood of above-normal runoff due to the anticipated warm weather and rainfall," the conservation authority said in a release.
Moderate runoff is expected as a result of the warm temperatures and rainfall, which may lead to rising rivers, creeks, and stream levels throughout the watershed, the authority said.
"Current stream flows are slightly above normal, and localized flooding may occur in low-lying areas, possibly causing water pooling on roads. Flood control channels managed by the SSMRCA are currently operating at normal levels; however, water levels in these areas are expected to rise."
The SSMRCA said it will continue to monitor stream levels and flows across the region and provide updates as new information becomes available.
Flood forecasting and warnings are a key part of the SSMRCA’s provincially mandated responsibilities. "This statement aims to raise awareness of potential flooding risks in the region," the conservation authority said.