Lake Erie Shoreline Flood Warning (Event Message #1)
December 10, 2021Effective immediately, the 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 wind warning, forecasting strong southwesterly winds reaching 90 km/h gusting to 110km/h.
Forecast models are currently forecasting Lake Erie to rise in Long Point by 0.75 meters above the current level to an elevation of 175.30 meters (IGLD 1985) and in the Port Colborne area 1.67 meters above the current level to an elevation of 176.27 meters (IGLD 1985). Strong winds are expected to cause wave heights greater than 1.5 meters (± 5 feet) in the Long Point area and up to 2.3 meters (± 7.5 feet) towards the eastern limits of the watershed. Water levels are forecasted to peak Saturday evening.
With the forecasted winds, flooding is expected to impact low lying areas along the Lake Erie shoreline and lower reaches of some tributaries. 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 1-4. The public is advised to familiarize themselves with flood warning zones mapping in Haldimand County on their website.
Norfolk County residents and businesses within LPRCA’s watershed should be aware flooding could reach Lake Erie Flood Zone 0. The public is advised to familiarize themselves with flood warning zones mapping in Norfolk County on their flood hub https://www.norfolkcounty.ca/living/flooding/
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 noon on Monday, December 13th, 2021.
Contact Ben Watson at bwatson@lprca.on.ca should further information be required.