LPRCA issues Flood Warning for Lake Erie shoreline

Effective immediately, Long Point Region Conservation Authority (LPRCA) is issuing a Flood Warning for the entire Lake Erie shoreline within LPRCA jurisdiction. The forecasted lake surge and wave heights are predicted to be higher than the waves and water levels seen last Sunday, October 27. If the forecasted levels are reached, flooding can be expected in low-lying areas along the Lake Erie shoreline.

Water levels are expected to peak between 10:00 p.m. Thursday, October 31 and 2:00 a.m. Friday, November 1. Municipal flood coordinators have been asked to monitor road conditions along the lakeshore and warn residents and businesses in very low-lying areas along the lakeshore.

Environment Canada is forecasting south-western winds reaching speeds of 70 km/h or higher, as well as gusts reaching 90 km/h or higher. These wind speeds are expected to occur this evening and continue into early Friday morning.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) is currently forecasting water levels in Port Colborne to rise 1.4 meters above the current level to an elevation of 176.0 meters (IGLD) and Long Point water levels to rise 0.9 meters above the current level to an elevation of 175.5 meters (IGLD). The anticipated strong winds are expected to cause waves reaching up to 1.8 meters in the Port Colborne area and up to 3.4 meters in the Long Point area.

This Flood Warning for the Lake Erie shoreline is in effect until noon, Friday, November 1, 2019. LPRCA staff will continue to monitor conditions throughout the watershed and will update this message as necessary.