A Flood Warning is currently in effect for the Lake Erie shoreline. The currently forecasted lake surge and wave heights are expected to have similar impacts as, or potentially greater than, the two surge events in late October.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry surge forecast model was updated at 2:00 p.m. today
and is forecasting a peak surge elevation of 176.2 m by 6:00 p.m. today. This is a 1.4 m rise above the
current lake level.

While some uncertainty remains in the height of the Lake Erie surge, forecasts indicate a risk for a significant event along the Lake Erie shoreline resulting in flooding, wave uprush and increased shoreline erosion along low-lying areas of the Lake Erie shoreline and lower reaches of some tributaries.

Lake levels are expected to begin to quickly rise early this afternoon, with the peak currently forecasted for early evening. Inner bay water levels are expected to peak about 1 hour after the lake peaks in Haldimand and Port Dover.

“Property owners along the Lake Erie shoreline should take precautionary measures now and prepare their property as best as possible for another extreme weather event,” said Jason Gallagher, Haldimand County’s Manager of Emergency Services and Fire Chief.

Residents living along Lake Erie should pay close attention to water levels and waves in their area and are urged to stay away from the shoreline during this event. Residents are also encouraged to contact their insurance company regarding flood insurance if they do not already have it.

This Flood Warning comes just days before a Flooding Hazards & Preparedness Measures Public Education Centre scheduled for Monday, December 2, 2019 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Dunnville Community Lifespan Centre (275 Ramsey Drive, Dunnville). Staff from the County and Grand River, Long Point Region and Niagara Peninsula conservation authorities will be present to share information and answer questions.

“We’ve already seen the damaging power of Lake Erie and the impacts it can have on our waterways and shorelines. With lake levels as high as they are, we really need property owners to understand the severity of these hazards and know exactly what to do and how to stay informed before, during and after a flood event,” Gallagher added.

The Flood Warning will remain in effect until noon on Thursday, November 28, 2019. Updated flood messages will be issued as conditions develop and better forecast information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to monitor the Haldimand County website and social media accounts for the most up-to-date flood and weather warning information.