Expected strong winds and waves could cause flooding and erosion problems along the Lake Huron shoreline.
An intense low-pressure system will move across the Maitland and Nine Mile River watersheds tomorrow (Thursday Oct. 31, 2019), bringing with it high winds. Strong northwest winds are expected to begin late Thursday and are forecast to peak early Friday morning. Maximum sustained wind speeds of 40-50 km/hr with gusts up to 80 km/hr are forecast over southern Lake Huron with this event. Winds are forecasted to diminish throughout the day on Friday, but will remain steady out of the northwest, before shifting southwest late in the day.
The strong winds, combined with near record-high water levels on Lake Huron, will result in higher than normal waves hitting shoreline areas. The increased wave height may result in minor flooding of low-lying coastal areas, as well as increased risk of erosion to lakeshore bluffs.
Residents and municipal officials are reminded to stay well back from breaking waves, as well as top-of-bluff areas during and after the storm in case there has been any movement of the lake bank. 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 9:00 a.m. on Saturday Nov. 2, 2019, unless local conditions warrant further updates. Maitland Conservation will continue to monitor watershed conditions and will provide an update if required.
Contact:
Stephen Jackson, Flood and Erosion Safety Services Coordinator
[email protected]
519-357-0890
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.