Strong Winds May Cause Flooding and Erosion Problems along the Lake Huron Shoreline
A low-pressure system will continue to move across Lake Huron today (Thursday April 9, 2020), bringing with it high winds. Strong northwest winds are expected to begin overnight tonight and persist through Friday, before decreasing tomorrow evening. Maximum sustained wind speeds of 45 kilometres (km) per hour, with gusts of up to 70 km/hr over Lake Huron are likely with this event.
The strong winds, combined with record-high Lake Huron water levels for this time of year, will result in higher than normal waves hitting shoreline areas.
In addition to potential flooding of low-lying coastal areas, continued erosion of the lakeshore bluff is expected. Saturated ground conditions combined with high waves will increase the possibility of bank failures. Residents and municipal officials are reminded to stay well back from breaking waves and from top-of-bluff areas during and after the storm. 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 place until 9:00 a.m. on Saturday April 11, 2020, unless local conditions warrant further updates. Maitland Conservation will continue to monitor shoreline conditions and will provide an update if required.
Contact:
Stephen Jackson, Flood and Erosion Safety Services Coordinator
[email protected]
519-357-0890
Media Contact:
Jayne Thompson, Communications Coordinator
[email protected]
Cell: 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.