From: LRCA Flood Messaging Sent: April 14, 2026 2:25 PM Subject: WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT - FLOOD OUTLOOK Importance: High
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – FLOOD OUTLOOK April 14, 2026 – 2:25 p.m.
LAKEHEAD REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – FLOOD OUTLOOK The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority has issued a Flood Outlook Statement for the Lakehead Region including: City of Thunder Bay, Municipalities of Neebing, Oliver Paipoonge, Shuniah and the Townships of O’Connor, Conmee, Gillies and Dorion. Weather Forecast: Approximately 25 mm of precipitation is forecast for Tuesday afternoon within the region. Significant rainfall is possible with the potential for heavy rain due to thunderstorms. Environmental Conditions: The region has experienced above average snowfall in 2026. The snowpack is above average for this time of year and is significantly greater in rural areas. The ground remains frozen. Area watercourses have begun to thaw and open up due to rising temperatures over the last week. Risks: The warm temperatures and forecasted rainfall will increase melting and degrade the snowpack and river ice; significant runoff is expected due to the frozen ground, ditches and waterways. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks become very slippery with precipitation and melting conditions. Flooding from rivers or lakes is not anticipated at this time; however, water is likely to accumulate on roadways, parking lots, and flat or low-lying areas. ACTION: The public is advised to pay attention to local forecasts, and exercise caution in and around area waterways. Parents and caregivers are advised to keep children and pets away from all waterways and discuss the hazards of unstable ice and cold fast flowing water. Municipalities are encouraged to monitor for frozen culverts and low-lying areas and respond to high water levels as necessary. A Flood Outlook Statement gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions. Authority Staff will continue to monitor conditions as part of its flood forecasting and warning program.
