Lake Erie Shoreline Flood Warning (Event Message #1)

Effective immediately, Long Point Region Conservation Authority (LPRCA) is issuing a Flood Warning for the entire Lake Erie shoreline within its jurisdiction.

Environment Canada has issued a gale warning for Lake Erie, forecasting strong southwesterly winds beginning early Friday and are expected to reach 45-55 km/h with gusts up to 90 km/h late morning while slowly diminishing into the evening.

Models are currently forecasting Lake Erie to rise in Long Point by 0.6 meters above the current level to an elevation of 175.14 meters (IGLD 1985) and in the Port Colborne area 1.5 meters to an elevation of 176.03 meters (IGLD 1985). Strong winds are expected to cause wave heights up to 2.6 meters in the Long Point area and up to 1.7 meters towards the eastern limits of the watershed. Water levels are expected to peak early afternoon on Friday.

With the forecasted winds, flooding is expected to impact low-lying areas along the Lake Erie shoreline and lower reaches of some tributaries. Minor flooding of roads in Long Point, Turkey Point, and Port Dover with depths of 0.1 to 0.2 metres can be expected. Wave uprush and increased shoreline erosion can be expected from this event.

Haldimand County residents and businesses within LPRCA’s watershed should be aware flooding could reach Lake Erie Flood Zones 3. The public is advised to familiarize themselves with flood warning zones mapping in Haldimand County on their website.

Community flood coordinators are asked to monitor conditions along the lakeshore.

The public is asked to stay away from the Lake Erie shoreline due to strong wave action and elevated water levels and follow the direction of local flood coordinators and emergency officials. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from these areas.

LPRCA staff will continue to monitor conditions throughout the watershed and will update this message as necessary.

This Flood Warning for the Lake Erie shoreline is in effect until 8:00 AM, Saturday, March 27, 2021.

Contact Matt Churly at 519-427-4423 should further information be required.