A flood watch has been issued for the local water shed.
That from the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority (NBMCA).
Officials say the exceptions are the Lake Nipissing shoreline and the Ottawa River and Mattawa areas.
Angela Mills, NBCMA flood duty officer says precipitation is forecasted to for the area, with 20-35mm of rain followed by 5-10cm of snow begining late Friday through Saturday. She adds warm temperatures over the past week have triggered extensive melt.
“Water levels in area rivers have increased in response. Water level is high for this time of year on local creeks and rivers,” she says. “Including Chippewa Creek, the La Vase River, and Wasi River. Water level is normal on the Ottawa River at Mattawa and Lake Nipissing. Localized flooding is possible in low-lying and poorly drained areas.”
Officials say higher flows can break up ice on streams and rivers that are not yet ice-free. Water levels are expected to increase throughout the watershed; however, widespread flooding is not expected at this time.
The public is encouraged to keep children and pets away from watercourses and shorelines. Area residents and visitors, especially those in low-lying areas, are encouraged to monitor the conditions as they develop and take proper precautions during times of high flows.