THUNDER BAY – The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry – Thunder Bay District is advising area residents that a Flood Warning is in effect in the District until Friday, May 20, 2022.

Residents in Kaministiquia River, Whitefish River, Dog Lake, Shebandowan, Kashabowie and Lac des Mille Lacs watersheds and surrounding areas should exercise extreme caution around less travelled roads, bridges, water-crossings, lakes, rivers, and areas of high runoff potential, as water levels in portions of the district are extremely high. Prolonged periods of high water are expected.

The ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.

The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority says, “Area watercourses are continuing to decline and are expected to further decline throughout the weekend.   Water levels remain very high, especially on the Kaministiquia River.  Prolonged periods of high water are anticipated.  Minimal precipitation is expected over the weekend, which will allow the levels to decline to more seasonal levels.

“Many flooded roads have been reported throughout the LRCA’s area of jurisdiction.  The public is advised to adhere to road closures and never drive over flooded roads.   Additionally, caution should be exercised if using recreational trails or visiting Conservation Areas, which may contain slippery or flooded trails”.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Description of Weather System

Significant rainfall over recent weeks, combined with melting snow, have resulted in high stream flow conditions. Water levels across the district are at or exceeding maximum outflows.

Description of Current Conditions

Significant rainfall over recent weeks, combined with melting snow, have resulted in high stream flow conditions. Water levels across the district are at or exceeding maximum outflows. With runoff continuing to accumulate and forecasted precipitation, the water levels are expected to continue to rise.

DEFINITIONS

• WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY: indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers and swimmers but flooding is not expected.

• WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – FLOOD OUTLOOK: gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions
• SHORELINE CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY: indicates that along the Great Lakes shorelines high water, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous but flooding is not expected.
• SHORELINE CONDITIONS STATEMENT – FLOOD OUTLOOK: gives early notice of the potential for flooding along the Great Lakes shorelines based on weather and lake conditions, and water safety information.
• FLOOD WATCH: potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities.
• FLOOD WARNING: flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.

LEARN MORE

• Surface Water Monitoring Centre:www.ontario.ca/page/surface-water-monitoring-centre
• Environment Canada bulletins: www. weather.gc.ca
• A close watch on local conditions and weather forecasts from Environment Canada is recommended.