Snow water content above normal for this time of year

Despite the reduction in the snow pack this past week, the water equivalency has increased and is above normal for this time of year at the three snow survey sites measured by the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority as part of its flood forecasting program. 

“Ideal weather conditions for a gradual melt are the same as for maple sap running – warm days and cold nights.  Warmer temperatures with sunshine and wind also help the snow pack evaporate and minimize the amount of water and surface runoff before the heavy spring rains arrive,” said Joel Harrison, Water Resources Specialist.

Right now there is a hard icy crust on the snow so if there was any significant rainfall; it would run off instead of being absorbed by the snow pack. 

NBMCA is now conducting its snow survey on a weekly basis in anticipation of the spring freshet.  The snow conditions, depth and water equivalency are considered together with ground conditions and expected rainfall in the forecasting of potential flooding.

Snow is measured for depth and water equivalence in North Bay, Corbeil and Chisholm Twp.  Data for the season can be found on the NBMCA website at www.nbmca.ca.  The next snow survey date is April 1.

North Bay Golf and Country Club (Chippewa Creek Watershed, North Bay                                                                                                                          

Corbeil Conservation Area (La Vase River Watershed, Corbeil)

Shirley Skinner Conservation Area (Kaibuskong River Watershed, Chisholm)