MNRF Issues Flood Watch for Chapleau & Area

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry – Chapleau District is advising area residents that a Flood Watch continues to be in effect in the District until Monday, May 13, 2019.

Residents in Chapleau and Foleyet areas are advised that there is potential for flooding to occur in low lying areas and should keep a close watch on conditions, regularly check for updated messages and stay away from fast-moving rivers and streams.

The ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions. Further updates will be issued as appropriate.

Description of Weather System

Current forecasts indicate the area will receive up to 17 mm of rain from May 7 to May 13.

Daytime temperatures are forecasted between 2 and 15 degrees with nighttime temperatures at or below freezing helping to moderate runoff and flows.

Description of Current Conditions

Water levels and flows in the Chapleau and Ivanhoe River systems continue to be above seasonal levels as a result of melting snow pack.

River systems are opening up but there are still significant amounts of ice on lakes which poses an increased risk for flooding to occur in low lying areas. The snowpack is continuing to melt resulting in increased runoff into watersheds. Average snow depth is currently 21 cm with water content at 81 mm.

DEFINITIONS

• WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – FLOOD OUTLOOK: gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions
• WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY: indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers and swimmers but flooding is not expected.
• FLOOD WATCH: potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities
• FLOOD WARNING: flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.