Conservation Sudbury has issued a flood warning for the Vermilion River between Chelmsford and Whitefish, effective Saturday, and expanded it on Sunday to include McCharles Lake. The warning is set to remain in place until 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday as water levels continue to rise steadily.
The watershed received higher-than-average snow volumes over the winter, with 81 mm of snow water equivalent remaining in the upper reaches as of April 21. Warming temperatures and recent rainfall – 10 to 15 mm as of Friday midnight, with another 5 to 10 mm expected Saturday – have accelerated snowmelt, contributing to the rising water levels.
Low-lying areas along the Vermilion River are already experiencing flooding, with water cresting some local roads.
In Chelmsford, levels are approaching 2023 peaks and may exceed them within the next two days, potentially restricting access to roads such as Larchmont Drive.
In Whitefish, water levels are rising steadily and could match 2023 peaks within eight days, possibly affecting roads like Carol Drive.
Residents near the river are urged to prepare for flooding and monitor conditions closely. Flood preparedness resources are available through the Ontario and federal governments.
Meanwhile, parts of the community of Dowling near the Onaping River are now under a flood watch and all other watercourses in Greater Sudbury are under a flood outlook.
Conservation Sudbury is working with the City of Greater Sudbury and other partners to monitor the situation. Real-time water level data can be accessed through the organization’s water data portal.
