Conservation Authorities are responsible for operating a flood forecasting system and warning the public of flooding risks. By giving as much advance notice as possible, people in flood-prone areas will have time to evacuate. Having accurate and current information is a vital part of Lakehead Conservation's system. A network of five gauges is in place along rivers in our jurisdiction. The gauges automatically record the streamflow, water elevation and precipitation. Conservation staff can access the data via modem for immediate use or future reference.

Staff measure the snowpack bimonthly during the winter. The amount of water in cores of snow is calculated. The data tells us how much water could run-off into watercourses if the snow were to melt. Snowmelt can contribute to the risk for flooding.

Our forecasting ability has become more sophisticated over the years with the use of computer models. The models use the watershed's physical characteristics and a set of variables for snow, ice and precipitation conditions to predict the risk of flooding.

Spring is the time of year normally associated with flooding. Snowmelt, river ice and heavy spring rains can add up to a flood hazard. However, flooding can happen at almost anytime of year. Some of the worst flood events in the Lakehead Region have happened in the summer and fall, such as the September 1977 flood and the July 1997 storm.

Using the model and stream data in conjunction with weather forecasts, Conservation staff can assess the potential for flooding. If there is a risk of flooding, a flood advisory is issued. If flooding is imminent, a flood warning is issued.

An Emergency Plan is in place to ensure that key personnel, agencies and the media are notified. The intent is to minimize the risk to life and property from flood events.

Lakehead Region Conservation Authority
P.O. Box 10427; 130 Conservation Rd.
Thunder Bay, ON  P7B 6T8 (Canada)
Telephone:(807) 344-5857  Fax:(807) 345-9156