The MNRF has greatly extended its Ottawa River flood warning.
It now runs all the way from Temiskaming Shores south to past Mattawa.
Water levels along the Ottawa River Watershed are seeing an increased rate of flow well above normal conditions. These higher than normal water levels will continue to increase from the current level of 154.98 m and are forecast to reach peak levels of 155.50 m on Wednesday.
The North Bay District has received substantial precipitation over the past two weeks and the combination of repeated rainfall and snowmelt has resulted in water levels and stream flows across the district rising significantly, reaching or exceeding flood levels in many areas.
"Municipalities and residents, especially those in low-lying areas and along shorelines, are encouraged to monitor these conditions and prepare accordingly," says an MNRF release. "Shorelines and banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and unstable at this time and, when combined with cold open water, pose a serious hazard."
The next significant weather system affecting the Ottawa River Watershed will move in on Wednesday and Thursday, bringing significant rainfall. Forecasted precipitation in the Ottawa River Watershed ranges from 27 mm in the Temiskaming area to 38 mm in the Mattawa area. If thunderstorms occur, increased rainfall is expected.
Affected communities include, Harris, Dymond, New Liskeard, Temiskaming Shores, North Cobalt, Cobalt, Lorrain, South Lorrain, Hebert, Burnaby, Parkman, Wyse, Town of Thorne, Eldee, Poitras, Eddy, Antoine, Mattawan, and Mattawa, PapineauCameron.
The special Flood Warning for the area is in effect until Monday, May 13.
Residents requiring more information in the following unincorporated townships (Lorrain, South Lorrain, Hebert, Burnaby, Parkman, Wyse, Poitras, Eddy, Antoine) are asked to contact Graham Mewett at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – North Bay District at (705) 475-5529.
