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A flood watch has been issued for areas around Thunder Bay, Ont.
The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA) issued the flood watch on Friday. It’s in effect for the Whitefish River watershed, including the townships of O’Connor and Gillies, and the Municipality of Oliver Paipoonge.
“Ice jamming has been reported and observed on the Whitefish River, causing a blockage to the flow of water down the river,” the LRCA said in a media release.
“There is significant snowpack in the rural areas leading to an increase in snowmelt as the temperatures rise. Area watercourses including the Whitefish River are beginning to increase in volume and flow due to the increased runoff from the snowmelt.”
In addition, the LRCA said there’s potential for five to 10 millimetres of precipitation over the next 24 hours.
People are advised to use caution when driving in the affected area, as the rising water could flood roads.
The public is advised to never drive through a flooded road, to pay attention to forecasts, and be careful in and around waterways in the area, as high flows and slippery banks could be dangerous.
People are also advised to keep children and pets away from waterways.
The LRCA said the flood watch is expected to remain in effect until 10 a.m. ET Monday.
