THUNDER BAY – The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority has issued an update to a flood warning issued Thursday, warning residents to exercise caution near waterways and while driving on local roads.
Area gauges recorded between 9 and 19 millimetres of rain overnight, the LRCA indicated, with two-day totals ranging from 34 to 50 millimetres.
Area watercourses that began to rise again overnight have begun to peak, the LRCA reported
However, water levels remain very high, especially on the Kaministiquia River
Prolonged periods of high water are anticipated, but minimal to no rain is forecast over the next five days
The heavy rainfall, combined with historically high snow depths, has prompted numerous road closures in the Thunder Bay area.
The LRCA advises residents never to drive over flooded roads.
The public is advised to exercise caution around local waterways due to high flows, and to keep children away from waterways and discuss the hazards of cold, fast-flowing water.
A woman and child were rescued from the McVicar Creek in Thunder Bay on Thursday, underlining the potential danger.
Flooding also closed the Whitefish Valley Public School on Thursday.
A flood warning is issued when flooding is believed to be imminent or already occurring.
