Flood fears in the north with warm weather, heavy rain on the way

Flooding is possible in northern Ontario this weekend because of heavily packed snow, rising temperatures and heavy rain in the forecast. (Darren MacDonald/CTV News)

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for Sudbury and North Bay on Friday, with 20-40 mm of rain expected this weekend.

And Sault Ste. Marie’s conservation authority issued a flood outlook statement.

Combined with temperatures of 10-12 C, there’s a possibility of flooding in some areas.

“Rain, at times heavy, is expected Saturday night into Sunday,” Environment Canada said.

“With a risk of thunderstorms, local rainfall amounts in excess of 40 mm are possible over some areas. Localized flooding in low-lying areas and water pooling on roads are possible.”

A bulletin Friday from the Ministry of Natural Resources warned that North Bay residents should keep a close eye on nearby lakes, rivers and streams.

Low-lying areas

“The warm temperatures and rainfall forecasted for Saturday and Sunday are likely to impact low-lying areas with a history of flooding,” the MNR said.

“Shoreline and ice conditions are also expected to be impacted. Please alert and/or monitor any children and pets under your care to possible dangers and supervise their activities around waterbodies.”

The area is under a flood outlook, which the MNR said gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on the weather forecast.

In the Sault, the conservation authority said the heavy snow the area received this winter heightens flood fears, with snow depths ranging from 65-95 cm.

Lots of snow

“These figures are notably higher than the long-term average for this time of year, increasing the likelihood of above-normal runoff as the forecasted warm weather and rainfall combine,” the statement said.

“While current stream flows are at normal levels, localized flooding may occur in low-lying areas, and pooling of water is possible on roads. Flood control … are currently operating at normal levels, though water levels in these areas are expected to rise.”

Current conditions can be accessed anytime through the Ontario Flood Map.