THUNDER BAY – A flood watch has been issued for the Thunder Bay area, with snowmelt and precipitation both potentially driving a rapid increase in water levels over the weekend.
The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA) announced Friday afternoon it had issued the flood watch for the Lakehead region, including Thunder Bay, Neebing, Oliver Paipoonge, Shuniah, O’Connor, Conmee, Gillies, and Dorion.
Localized flooding has already been reported on some area roadways, the LRCA stated.
An above-average snowpack remains on the ground, especially in rural areas. With Environment Canada forecasting highs of 13 C on Friday and 8 C on Saturday, that’s expected to cause significant runoff.
The LRCA advised that around 30 millimetres of mixed precipitation is also possible over the weekend.
Environment Canada was calling for a 60 per cent chance of showers on Saturday in Thunder Bay, with periods of snow or rain possible on Sunday, when temperatures are expected to dip closer to zero.
The LRCA urges the public to pay attention to local forecasts, exercise caution in and around area waterways, and never drive through overtopped roads.
Parents and caregivers are advised to keep children and pets away from all waterways and discuss the hazards of cold, fast-flowing water.
The flood watch will remain in effect throughout the weekend, with LRCA staff continuing to monitor conditions as part of its flood forecasting and warning program.
Thunder Bay city officials have issued a caution about one roadway with localized flooding. City crews are working to pump excess water away from the area of Loch Lomond Road, which has sections in poor conditions, though it remains open. Drivers and pedestrians are urged to use extra caution.
