Sudbury declares state of emergency as water levels rise, flood warning issued

SUDBURY — The City of Greater Sudbury has declared a state of emergency as it grapples with rising water levels and braces for more flooding in the coming days.

City officials say the decision was made based on current conditions and projections from Conservation Sudbury, which has issued a flood warning for the region.

The city says recent snowmelt and rainfall have led to elevated water levels across the community, and the emergency declaration will allow officials to act more quickly by streamlining the decision-making process.

It says crews are working around the clock to monitor and manage municipal infrastructure, and residents should take steps to protect themselves and their property.

Conservation Sudbury updated its warning Monday, saying flooding was already occurring in several low-lying areas and residents in those areas should remain on alert, it said.

It said some parts of Vermilion River are rising by up to 24 centimetres a day, while the water level in Simon Lake has risen by 24 centimetres in the past 24 hours.

The conservation agency said a similar trend is expected at McCharles Lake and could eventually occur in Mud Lake.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 21, 2026.

The Canadian Press