A flood warning is currently in effect for the French River and Lower Pickerel River watersheds.
This warning will impact those within the unorganized townships of Mowat, Blair, and McConkey. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) announced the warning in a press release on May 10.
Flood warnings—more severe than flood watches—mean that flooding is imminent or already occurring. This warning will remain in effect until Friday, May 17.
Lake Nipissing has experienced significant precipitation over the past few weeks, causing water levels and river flows in the French and Lower Pickerel rivers to rise rapidly. Lake Nipissing flows into the French River, which is connected to the Pickerel River.
The Parry Sound area received over 157mm of precipitation throughout the month of April. The area could see an additional 14mm of rain before Friday.
The MNRF is advising “extreme caution” when using forest access roads that are prone to localized flooding or washouts. Additionally, lower-lying portions of flood-prone areas may be affected to “varying degrees” as water levels continue to rise.
Ontario has seen a number of flood watches and warnings over the last month as the province has sustained unseasonably high precipitation, according to the MNRF. Northern Ontario regions, including North Bay and Sudbury, also have flood warnings in effect this week with more rain expected to be on the way.
The MNRF says that there is no additional precipitation forecasted at this time for the Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound region.
For more information, consult with your local township and stay up to date on Ontario flood warnings.
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