THUNDER BAY — The local conservation authority is advising residents to be aware of possible flood risks for the area.
The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA) has issued a flood watch for Thunder Bay and the municipalities of Neebing, Oliver Paipoonge, Shuniah and the Townships of O’Connor, Conmee, Gillies and Dorion.
Environment Canada is predicting 30 to 50 mm of rainfall, as well as possible thunderstorms Monday afternoon and overnight into Tuesday.
Since there is still snow present in certain areas of the Lakehead jurisdiction, and the ground is not completely thawed, the water might not be absorbed by the ground. The combined rainfall and snowmelt could cause significant runoff due to the frozen ground. Area watercourses are expected to rise in response to rainfall, and localized flooding may occur in low-lying areas.
Area watercourses have been flowing rapidly due to spring melt over the past several weeks. Residents are advised to exercise caution around these areas, as the banks may be slippery.
Parents and caregivers are advised to keep pets and children away from all waterways and discuss the hazards of unstable ice and cold, fast-flowing water.
A Flood Watch is issued when the assessed conditions indicate that the potential for flooding exists.
The release stated that authority staff will continue to monitor conditions as part of its flood forecasting and warning program.
