RED LAKE— A flood warning is in effect in the Red Lake District until June 3.
The news release stated that residents in the Red Lake, Suffel Lake, Dixie Lake, Longlegged Lake, Pakwash Lake, Chukuni River, Coli Lake, Berens Lake, and English River watersheds, and surrounding areas throughout the district are asked to use extreme caution around less travelled roads, bridges, water-crossings, lakes, rivers, and areas of high runoff potential, as water levels in portions of the district are high. It is believed that water levels may continue to rise throughout the coming days due to precipitation received.
According to the notice, “These water levels could lead to road and shoreline property damage. Residents are advised to secure shoreline structures such as boats and docks, among other items/structures.”
The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry, Red Lake District describes the situation as having experienced heavy rainfall in the past week, and that combined with melting snow, it has resulted in high stream flow conditions.
In addition, water levels across the district are considered to exceed maximum outflows, and with runoff expected to continue to accumulate and with the forecasted precipitation, the water levels are expected to continue to rise. The Ministry has asked that, “Residents in Unorganized Townships may request sandbags free-of-charge from the Ministry of Northern Developments, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry by calling (807) 728-3425. Government issued identification is required.”
The news release also provided useful links which residents and the public can visit to learn more about the situation. These links include:
- Surface Water Monitoring Centre: www.ontario.ca/page/surface-water-monitoring-centre
- Environment Canada bulletins: www. weather.gc.ca
- A close watch on local conditions and weather forecasts from Environment Canada is recommended.
- Lake of the Woods Control Board: www.lwcb.ca/noticeboard/
