The heavy rain, strong easterly winds, and big waves spelled big trouble for residents of Jacko point, west of North Bay yesterday.
The land is part of Nipissing First Nation.
"At least 150 homes and cottages in Jocko Point are affected by flooding caused by yesterday’s heavy rain, strong winds, and extreme wave action, which resulted in devastating damages for some residents," says spokeswoman Gen Couchie.
Some good news today, however, today, water surges have receded.
Winds have shifted southwest and are expected to gust between 19 and 28 km/h throughout the day, which has the potential to create similar surges and risks for flooding damage in Beaucage. Crews are working to sandbag dwellings in that community to prevent similar damages.
"We are watching both communities closely and continue to coordinate sand and sandbags for residents," added Couchie. "Lake Nipissing water levels have risen 6cm (nearly 2.5 inches) on average since yesterday. Minimal precipitation is expected over the weekend, but we are concerned about inflows into Lake Nipissing as efforts are being made to alleviate flooding to the north of us. The lower French River area is prepared to take on water from Lake Nipissing to ease pressure on communities surrounding the lake."
Nipissing First Nation has not declared a state of emergency, nor issued any evacuation orders.
"NFN will only issue evacuation orders if water breaches Jocko Point Road and it becomes unpassable," says Melvin McLeod, Emergency Services Manager. "NFN Public Works will be adding gravel and building up Jocko Point Road today to mitigate this risk. At this time, there are no concerns about any road washouts, but we are actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they become available."
Should an evacuation order be issued for Jocko Point residents, notices will be delivered door-to-door.
The Jocko Point Community Centre will be available to residents for shelter and access to potable water.
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