Conservation authority upgrades to flood warning

Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses, said the Nickel District Conservation Authority.

The NDCA upgraded its flood watch to a flood warning effective as of 3 p.m.

The warning was issued due to the continuing Environment Canada forecast for significant rain and thunderstorms today, tonight and into tomorrow.

Ground conditions are frozen and/or saturated throughout the watersheds, which will increase the direct runoff generated from the heavy rain. Temperatures by late today are expected to be well above zero before falling later tomorrow.

Flooding can be expected in low-lying and hazard areas that traditionally flood as a result of this significant amount of rainfall, said the NDCA.

This warning applies to all rivers, creeks and waterbodies within the City of Greater Sudbury. Levels and flows are increasing and with the heaviest amounts of rain forecast to occur later today and into tomorrow, the full impacts of this storm with the combined ongoing melt will not be felt until tomorrow and the weekend.

Residents in all affected areas must very closely monitor the developing conditions and seek assistance if necessary.

Fast-flowing, cold water must be avoided, warns the NDCA. Creek and river banks will be very slippery and unsafe.

Anyone experiencing problems due to overland flooding are to call the city at 311, 24 hours a day.