Urban creeks in the City of North Bay will respond quickly to periods of intense rain
A Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety has been issued for the North Bay – Mattawa watershed, according to the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority (NBMCA).
“Water levels in the Mattawa area are near normal for this time of year, however, forecasted rain, mild temperatures, and resulting snowmelt will increase flows on local rivers and streams,” stated Angela Mills, NBMCA Flood Duty Officer. “Significant rain is forecast tonight and tomorrow. Urban creeks in the City of North Bay will respond quickly to periods of intense rain. Localized flooding may occur in low-lying areas, but widespread flooding is not expected.”
Rain, heavy at times, and mild temperatures are expected tonight through Wednesday. With a risk of thunderstorms Wednesday afternoon and evening, local rainfall amounts in excess of 25 mm cannot be ruled out by Wednesday night.
Southern reaches of the district are expected to receive 10-15mm of rain, which could fall as snow in some areas, beginning later in the day on Tuesday (today) and continuing into Wednesday with an additional 10-20mm of rain expected. Northern reaches of the district are expected to see a mixture of rain and snow today into Wednesday with up to 15cm of snow falling and 5mm of rain. On Thursday, lingering precipitation may fall as snow or mix of rain and snow before ending moving into Friday.
For all areas of the district, temperatures will remain near freezing Tuesday night before reaching above freezing temperatures on Wednesday. Temperatures are forecast to drop below the freezing mark again Wednesday overnight.
Significant snowpack remains across the district, most of which contains above average water content, and lakes and rivers are still frozen. Rainfall from today and tomorrow along with warmer temperatures will see streams and creeks respond accordingly which could include unstable shorelines and the beginning of deteriorating ice conditions. Rainfall and snowmelt could result in potential flooding in low lying areas with a history of flooding. Residents in these areas are encouraged to monitor conditions and prepare accordingly.
The public is encouraged to keep children and pets away from watercourses and shorelines. Area residents and visitors, especially those in low-lying areas, are encouraged to monitor the conditions as they develop and take proper precautions during times of high flows. If you have a flood emergency, please contact your municipality. If you live in an unincorporated township, please contact the Ministry of Natural Resources – North Bay District.
