LPRCA Issues A Flood Warning

Sunday, 12 April 2020 13:03

A flood warning is in effect for the entire Lake Erie shoreline, which is expected to impact the low lying areas along the shoreline and remain in effect until Tuesday afternoon.

HALDIMAND COUNTY - Effective immediately, a flood warning has been issued for the entire Lake Erie shoreline.

The Long Point Region Conservation Authority (LPRCA) made the announcement in a press release earlier this morning.

Environment Canada is forecasting strong southwesterly winds of 65-75 km/h and gusts of up to 100 km/h over Lake Erie tomorrow afternoon and evening.

With the winds, the LPRCA says 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 and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) is currently forecasting Lake Erie to rise in the western Long Point area by 0.43 meters above the current level to an elevation of 175.51 meters, and 0.98 meters above the current level to an elevation of 176.06 meters in the area of Port Colborne.

According to the release, peak levels are currently expected to occur between late tomorrow afternoon through the evening. The heights of the waves are forecast to reach up to two meters along the shoreline.

Haldimand County residents and businesses within LPRCA’s watershed should be aware that flooding could reach Lake Erie Flood Zone 3.

Community flood coordinators are asked to monitor road conditions along the lakeshore and warn those residents and businesses in low lying areas. The LPRCA says people are urged to use caution or stay away from Lake Erie shoreline areas experiencing strong wave action and levels of elevated water. Parents are also being reminded to keep children and pets away from these areas.

This Flood Warning for the Lake Erie shoreline is in effect until Tuesday at 2:00 pm. Conditions will continue to be monitored throughout the watershed by LPRCA staff and they will update this message.