Heavy rainfall and rising water levels prompt urgent caution across Northwestern Ontario municipalities.

Flood Watch Upgraded to Flood Warning

THUNDER BAY – WEATHER – The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA) has upgraded its Flood Watch to a Flood Warning for the Thunder Bay region, including the City of Thunder Bay, Neebing, Oliver Paipoonge, Shuniah, and the Townships of O’Connor, Conmee, Gillies, and Dorion.

Significant Rainfall Recorded

As of 9:30 p.m. Monday, between 30 to 50 millimetres of rain has been recorded across the region, with the heaviest amounts falling west of Thunder Bay. Additional rainfall and possible thunderstorms are forecasted overnight, increasing the risk of further water level rises.

Rapid Water Level Rise Sparks Concerns

Area rivers and streams have risen quickly in response to the rain and are expected to continue rising overnight and into Tuesday. Already, flooding has been reported in low-lying areas and along several roads in the Townships of O’Connor and Gillies.

Motorists are urged to use extreme caution during their morning commute and to avoid driving through flooded roadways. Parents and caregivers should ensure that children stay away from all watercourses, as fast-flowing, cold water presents a serious danger.

Public Safety First

A Flood Warning means that flooding is either happening or is imminent. The LRCA will continue monitoring the situation as part of its flood forecasting and warning program and will issue further updates as necessary.

This warning remains in effect until 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.