Shoreline Condition Statement – Water Safety
Strong Winds & Saturated Soils Increase Erosion Risk Along Lake Huron Shoreline
Northwest winds will impact the Lake Huron shoreline today (Monday November 22, 2021) and persist until Tuesday morning. Sustained wind speeds of 45 km/hr, with gusts of up to 60-70 km/hr are forecasted with this event. Resulting waves are expected to build to maximum heights of 3-4m overnight Monday. Lake Huron water levels have dropped below record highs but remain 0.37m above the November average. Continued widespread erosion of both beaches and the lakeshore bluff is expected and there is a risk of flooding in some low-lying coastal areas.
While significant shoreline flooding is not anticipated, the high waves will cause additional erosion of the toe (bottom) of the bluff in areas that have already experienced extensive erosion over the past two years. In addition, the shoreline has received above average rainfall over the last three months leading to saturated soil conditions. This increases the potential for bluff failure.
Residents 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. 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 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday November 23, 2021, unless local conditions warrant further updates. Maitland Conservation will continue to monitor conditions and will provide an update if required.
Contact:
Patrick Huber-Kidby, Environmental Planner / Regulations Officer
[email protected] or 519-357-0890
Media Inquiries:
Jayne Thompson, Communications and GIS-IT 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.