Flood Outlook for Lake Erie Shoreline

The Long Point Region Conservation Authority is updating the Flood Outlook for all areas of the Lake Erie shoreline within its jurisdiction. This updated message is intended to raise attention to the current and forecast high static water levels of Lake Erie. The potential for storm surge events continues to be increased as a result of the higher lake levels.

The National Hydrological Services Great Lakes Water Levels Information Memorandum (March 1st, 2019) reports that:

• Lake Erie’s monthly water level was 62 cm above average and 17 cm above last February, and the highest since 1998.
• Lake Erie rose 5 cm last month more than the typical rise of 2 cm.

As a result of the high lake levels, there continues to be an increased risk for flooding and erosion along the Lake Erie shoreline. The greatest risk for flooding and erosion in the Long Point Region in particular is from storms with sustained south-westerly and westerly wind storms. The risk for flood events along the shoreline is expected to remain high into the spring.

Community flood coordinators and the public are advised to monitor weather conditions and the increase in potential for flooding and erosion along the shoreline into 2019. People are urged to use caution or stay away from the Lake Erie shoreline during times of strong wave action and elevated water levels.

Long Point Region Conservation Authority staff will continue to monitor conditions and will update this flood message as necessary.

Contact Ben Hodi, Water Resources Analyst at 519-842-4242 ext. 264 should further information be required.