Strong winds expected to cause flooding and erosion problems
The significant low pressure system bringing blizzard conditions to the Great Lakes is also expected to cause flooding and erosion along the Lake Huron shoreline. The storm will bring strong winds resulting in significant wave action along the Lake Huron shore. Westerly winds will begin strengthening tomorrow morning (Friday, December 23, 2022), with sustained wind speeds building to 70 km/hr and gusts reaching over 100 km/hr. This is a significant duration event, with winds remaining strong well into Sunday (December 25, 2022). Resulting waves will begin building by Friday afternoon, reaching peak heights of 4-5m by midnight. Wave action will decrease slightly overnight into Saturday but is expected to remain strong until Saturday afternoon (December 24, 2022).
Residents and municipal officials are reminded to stay well back from breaking waves. In addition, people should stay away from top-of-bluff areas during and after the storm in case there has been any movement of the lake bank. Further, heavy snow and strong winds will create whiteout conditions and present additional visibility hazards along the shoreline. It is important to remember that there may be a delay between erosion at the toe (bottom) of the bluff and subsequent bluff failure.
This message will remain in effect until 10:00 a.m. on Monday December 26, 2022, unless local conditions warrant further updates. Maitland Conservation will continue to monitor conditions and will provide an update if required.
Contact:
Sarah Gunnewiek, Water Resources Technician
[email protected]
Media Inquiries:
Jayne Thompson, Communications Coordinator
[email protected] or 519-357-6670
Types of Flood Messages:
Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety – General watershed conditions are being assessed for high runoff potential that could lead to flooding, and to remind the public of general river safety issues.
Watershed Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.
Flood Watch – Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.
Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should take action to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.