THUNDER BAY – The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority has issued a Flood Outlook Statement for the Lakehead Region including: City of Thunder Bay, Municipalities of Neebing, Oliver Paipoonge, Shuniah and the Townships of O’Connor, Conmee, Gillies and Dorion.
The majority of the snowpack has melted in the urban areas; however, there is still some snow in the rural areas. Most watercourses have crested as a result of the spring melt, but the ground has only recently started to thaw, so the ability of the soil to infiltrate rainfall is still low.
Approximately 25 to 35 millimetres of precipitation is forecasted over the weekend, with the majority forecasted for Sunday. Water levels and flows are expected to increase over the weekend throughout the Lakehead Region.
The public is advised to be aware that there is a threat of localized ponding and flooding in low lying areas from heavy rain, prolonged rain and/or downpours due to thunderstorms. The public is advised to exercise caution in and around area waterways and to continue to pay attention to weather forecasts over the weekend.
A Watershed Conditions Statement-Flood Outlook provides early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, etc. A Watershed Conditions Statement is not a flood warning. Its purpose is to raise public awareness about a change or potential change in watershed conditions.
Authority Staff will continue to monitor conditions as part of its flood forecasting and warning program. Updates will be provided as warranted.
