Conservation Sudbury has issued a flood watch through 2 p.m. on April 16, citing above-seasonal water levels after recent rain and melt events and warning that additional runoff is expected as daytime highs climb to around 13 C
NEWS RELEASE
CONSERVATION SUDBURY
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A flood watch for all Greater Sudbury watersheds takes effect at 4 p.m. today. This message is focused on urban watercourses and tributaries to major rivers. This message does not apply to the main branch of the Whitson River, Vermilion River, Onaping River or Wanapitei River. This statement will remain in effect until 2 p.m., April 16, 2026.
Water levels within most systems are currently at the high end of typical seasonal ranges following recent rain and melt events. A significant amount of snow remains across all area watersheds, with recent surveys indicating the snowpack contains 200-240 mm of snow-water equivalent.
Forecasts of daytime temperatures over the next five days call for a continuous trend above 5 C and as high as 13 C. These daytime temperatures will release water held within the snowpack, increasing runoff to adjacent watercourses. Additionally, 30-50 mm of rainfall is currently forecast to begin on Sunday and continue into Monday. Current ground conditions are frozen, and the existing snowpack is near saturated, meaning there is little ability for the ground or snowpack to absorb the rain.
The runoff produced by the combined rainfall and snowmelt event will result in rising water levels in nearby watercourses. This rise will be most pronounced within urban watersheds and small tributaries that respond quickly to increased runoff.
Overland flooding is a possibility given the current forecast. Localized ponding on streets and other low-lying areas can also be expected.
Public safety is the number one priority, especially for children who may be attracted to the edge of creeks or rivers. The cold, fast-flowing water must be avoided. Stream banks will be very slippery and unsafe and must be avoided. Any open-water areas will continue to widen, and these must also be avoided.
Conservation Sudbury remains in direct contact with the City of Greater Sudbury and all other partners as required. Staff continue to monitor water levels and updates will be provided when needed.
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