THUNDER BAY – The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority has issued a Flood Watch for the Lakehead Region, including the City of Thunder Bay, Municipalities of Neebing, Oliver Paipoonge, Shuniah, and the Townships of O’Connor, Conmee, Gillies, and Dorion. This advisory comes as approximately 30 millimetres of mixed precipitation is expected over the weekend, in addition to runoff from the snowmelt. Rural areas, in particular, have above-average snowpack on the ground, and the melt is continuing.
The combination of snowmelt and additional precipitation is likely to cause moderate to rapid increases in water levels and flows in the drainage network, and some area roadways have already reported localized flooding. The public is advised to exercise caution around waterways, as high flows and unstable, slippery banks could be dangerous.
A Flood Watch is issued when conditions indicate that the potential for flooding exists. The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority staff will continue to monitor the situation as part of its flood forecasting and warning program. The Flood Watch will remain in effect through the weekend and will be updated if conditions warrant.
Residents in the affected areas are urged to stay tuned to local forecasts and to take appropriate precautions. Parents and caregivers are advised to keep children and pets away from all waterways and discuss the hazards of cold, fast-flowing water.
