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Local snow depths remain below normal

Warm weather earlier this month led to higher inflows in the area, but the cooler temperatures are expected to decrease that
TimminsToday Staff

The snow depth across the watershed continues to be below normal, Mattagami Region Conservation Authority (MRCA) data shows.

In the spring, the MRCA provides regular updates about where the area is in terms of snow depth and runoff.

Across the Upper Mattagami Watershed, the snow depth and water content for this time of year are below normal. The water content variances throughout the area are 19.6 per cent to 83 per cent below normal. 

"Inflows across the Upper Mattagami watershed increased near the beginning of March due to warmer than average temperatures along with some rain. Inflows are currently holding at slightly higher than normal levels but are anticipated to decrease with the onset of cooler weather. Reservoir drawdowns were slowed by an increase in inflows but are anticipated to continue to draw with a forecasted reduction in inflows. The exception to the drawdown is at Mesomikenda where some logs were replaced to begin a gradual rebuild," reads the March 19 update.

The enclosed areas of Town and Crawford creeks continue to be closely watched.

There are several sites where snow course readings are taken, with this year's snow depth being below normal across the board.

The most recent measurements are:

  • Shillington - The snow depth is 41.2 inches, whereas the normal depth is 27.3. In 2023 during the same period, the depth was 18.5 inches.
  • Porcupine - The snow depth is 16.3 inches, whereas the normal depth is 30.9. In 2023 during the same period, the depth was 25.9 inches.
  • Mountjoy - The snow depth is 12.1 inches, whereas the normal depth is 27.4. In 2023 during the same period, the depth was 20.8 inches. 
  • Mattagami - The snow depth is 13.4 inches, whereas the normal depth is 25.7. In 2023 during the same period, the depth was 22.1 inches.
  • Shining Tree - The snow depth is 3.5 inches, whereas the normal depth is 22. In 2023 during the same period, the depth was 16.1 inches.
  • Timmins - The snow depth is 16.5 inches, whereas the normal depth is 25.7. In 2023 during the same period, the depth was 22.9 inches.
  • Gogama - The snow depth is 11.1 inches, whereas the normal depth is 23.6. In 2023 during the same period, the depth was 20.2 inches.