THUNDER BAY – Due to the higher-than-average snowfall this winter and the significant amount of rain over the last couple of weeks, the Lakehead Conversation Authority has stated that high levels of flowing water can cause danger along unstable banks.
Recent snow surveys record that snow levels are the highest ever recorded in the same period. As of May 2, the snow measurements recorded were between 26 to 76 centimetres of snow compared to the average of two to eight centimetres in previous years.
The statement reads, “in response to the recent rainfall and snowmelt area, watercourses have risen considerably. Most gauged watercourses have peaked but will experience high levels for a prolonged period of time. The Neebing-Mcintyre Floodway continues to divert water from the Neebing River into the floodway channel, which is the first-time water diversion that has occurred in the last five years. The Neebing River, Corbett Creek, and Slate River are all above estimated five-year return period levels (i.e. levels we typically experience every five years).”
Lakehead Region Conversation Authority informs the public that above-average water levels will cause unsafe conditions along waterways as slippery banks can cause people to fall into the fast-flowing waters, resulting in fatalities.
Although weather forecasts for the next five days call for no precipitation, the high temperatures will result in faster snowmelt adding to the water level in and around these areas.
Please exercise extreme caution when walking around these areas by paying attention to local forecasts before heading out.
