Sustained record-breaking water levels in Lake Erie have prompted the Kettle Creek Conservation Authority to issue a Lake Erie shoreline flood outlook update, in effect until the end of the month.
Lake Erie water levels have been rising following heavy precipitation over the last several weeks, and have since stabilized above record breaking levels set in January 1987. Data collected in Port Stanley at the end of January indicates that the average water level, has increased to 174.86 m which is 6 cm higher than the record high.
Shoreline residents, particularly those in Port Stanley are reminded to be aware of sustained and gusty southwesterly winds at or above 50 km/hr. Under the right conditions, storm surge can occur quickly with little warning. All shoreline residents should be aware that wind and wave action can cause shoreline erosion, damage to shoreline structures, and can cause localized flooding.
In addition, Lake Erie is almost completely ice free meaning there is an increased risk of storm surge warns Jennifer Dow, Water Conservation Supervisor at the KCCA.
