Local weather is about to get messy.
Rain is expected Wednesday turning to freezing rain possibly Thursday.
Rainfall amounts of 15 to 25 mm will occur early Wednesday afternoon, then freezing rain with 1 to 3 mm of ice build-up is possible early Thursday morning and ending in the afternoon.
A low-pressure system will bring rain to the area beginning early Wednesday afternoon. Rain may change to freezing rain early Thursday morning before transitioning to snow Thursday afternoon. A freezing rain warning may be issued as this event approaches.
A "Flood Watch" has been issued for the North Bay-Mattawa watershed and "Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety" has been issued for the Lake Nipissing Shoreline in North Bay and Callander, and the lower reaches of the Mattawa River in Mattawa, according to the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority.
Water levels on local creeks and rivers, including Chippewa Creek, La Vase River, and Wasi River have increased in response to the weekend’s rain and snowmelt. Water Levels on Lake Nipissing and in Mattawa are normal and well below flood thresholds.
Changing water levels, increased runoff and warm temperatures will impact ice stability. Flooding is not anticipated along the Lake Nipissing Shoreline nor in Mattawa.
“Recent weather conditions have triggered significant snowmelt and increases in local water levels,” stated Angela Mills, NBMCA Flood Duty Officer. “With warm temperatures and rain over the next few days, water levels and flows are expected to increase further. Localized flooding is possible in low-lying and poorly drained areas.”
A special statement is issued for:
- North Bay - West Nipissing
- Powassan - Mattawa
- Greater Sudbury and vicinity
- Temiskaming Shores - Temagami
For information concerning flooding, consult the local Conservation Authority or Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources office.
Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery.