Flood watch for Lake Nipissing shoreline

A "Flood Watch" is now in effect for the Lake Nipissing shoreline area says the local Conservation Authority.

"The Lake Nipissing water level has increased by 18 cm since April 30,” said Angela Mills, NBMCA Flood Duty Officer. “The lake level is expected to increase further this week, due to the significant rain event that started April 29.”

Conditions are changing rapidly, and water levels may increase beyond what is forecast. The water level on Lake Nipissing is regulated by dams operated by the federal government.

The Flood Watch for all other areas in the NBMCA watershed continues. With the significant rainfall received since April 29, water levels on local creeks and rivers rose sharply. Some local creeks and lakes are expected to remain high for the next few days. A period of warmer, drier weather that is forecast to start May 5 might help to lower the water levels in the local creeks and rivers.

Meanwhile, a flood warning continues for the Mattawa River subwatershed including the Town of Mattawa.

See: Mattawa binds together under state of emergency

Mattawa has declared a "State of Local Emergency."

The Ottawa River water level at Mattawa has now exceeded the threshold for minor flooding.

"Low-lying areas in and around the Town of Mattawa are being affected by both the Ottawa River and Mattawa River,” said Chitra Gowda, NBMCA CAO. “The Ottawa River water level at Mattawa has increased by around 92 cm since Sunday morning (April 30). There is a potential for further water level increases in both rivers in the next few days,” continued Gowda.

“The Mattawa Island Conservation Area is covered by the floodwaters and the NBMCA has closed the access road.”

Residents, especially those in low-lying areas, are encouraged to monitor the conditions as they develop and prepare accordingly.