Effective immediately, the Long Point Region Conservation Authority is issuing a Flood Watch for all areas along the Lake Erie shoreline. The Grand River Conservation Authority has also issued a Watershed Conditions Statement for the Grand River Watershed.

Environment Canada is expecting up to 37 km/h winds from the northeast this afternoon, diminishing to 19 km/h southeast overnight and south Thursday morning. Winds are expected to increase to 28 km/h southwest by noon Thursday, and further increase to 65 km/h southwest Thursday evening.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) is currently forecasting Port Colborne to rise 1.1 meters above the current level to an elevation of 175.7 meters (IGLD) and Long Point to rise 0.5 meters above the current level to an elevation of 175.2 meters (IGLD).  Strong winds are expected to cause wave heights to reach up to 1.7 meters in the Port Colborne area and up to 2.5 meters in the Long Point area. The forecasted lake surge and wave heights are similar in magnitude to what occurred during this past Sunday’s event.

Lake levels are expected to begin to rise early Thursday afternoon, and peak between 8:00 PM and midnight late Thursday evening. If this surge level is reached, flooding can be expected in low lying areas along the Lake Erie shoreline.

“In addition to the flooding, high winds will likely pose a hazard during this event, especially when they peak Thursday evening,” said Jason Gallagher, Fire Chief / Manager of Emergency Medical Services. “High winds can easily toss objects that become projectiles; it’s best to stay indoors if at all possible,” Gallagher added.

Haldimand County Emergency Services will be closely monitoring conditions and roads along the lakeshore and will implement closures as necessary. Access to the Port Maitland Pier will be closed tomorrow afternoon and the public is urged to stay away from this area due to expected high winds and waves.

Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from all waterways. Residents are also advised to contact their insurance company regarding flood insurance if they do not already have it.

This Flood Watch is in effect until noon on Friday, November 1, 2019.