DISTRICT (Staff/Special) — The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) – Kirkland Lake District is advising area residents that the flood watch has been extended and will remain in effect across the district until Friday, May 10.
The MNRF states, “Water levels and flows in local lakes and rivers will remain high following significant snow melt and a combination of warm temperatures and the potential for scattered showers that is forecasted to move into the area over the weekend.
“Residents and those visiting the area are advised to be aware of current watershed conditions. Higher than normal water levels and flow conditions, typical of this time of year, exist throughout the area and residents are reminded to keep a close watch on weather conditions, regularly check for updated messages and exercise caution near fast-moving rivers and streams. It is expected that lower lying portions of known flood-prone roads along river courses will be impacted to various degrees as lake and river levels increase over the week. Banks and shorelines adjacent to water bodies are extremely slippery and unstable. Residents and visitors should exercise caution while around water bodies and maintain close supervision of children and pets. Residents that may be affected by high water conditions should take necessary action to protect and secure any vulnerable property in proximity to rivers and lakes and closely monitor developing conditions.”
The ministry stated that it is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions.
The ministry states that the weather forecast in the coming days shows an increase in temperatures with daily highs ranging from 7-15 degrees. There is some precipitation forecasted across the district for Sunday, May 5, producing less than 5 millimetres of rain. Nighttime lows will hover around zero degrees and slightly below zero degrees.
The ministry stated that water levels and stream flows across the Kirkland Lake District are elevated from ongoing spring snow melt and past precipitation events.
“The impact of recent warm temperatures and rainfall have compacted the significant snow pack reducing its ability to absorb rainfall. The forecasted warm temperatures and precipitation are likely to further degrade the snowpack and river ice and continue to produce runoff and increase levels and flows. Warm temperatures in advance will deteriorate snowpack and further prime it for release and melt.
“Risks may include degradation of river ice and ice jam related flooding from increasing temperatures and flows, fast moving cold water with rapidly changing conditions, and flooding of low-lying areas with a history of flooding.
“A close watch on local forecasts and conditions is recommended.”