Severe Conditions Expected Along Lake Erie Shoreline Sunday, People Asked To Leave Lakeshore Residences, Cottages

Flood & High Lake Level Warnings are now in effect for the Lake Erie shoreline and areas downstream of the Dunnville Dam. High winds and waves in the forecast are expected to cause extremely dangerous conditions throughout Sunday and there is a high risk of flooding, erosion and property damage associated with this weather event.

This event will have a significant impact along the shoreline and impacts are expected to exceed those that occurred during the October 31, 2019 event. Impacts are expected to affect Zones 1-5 along the Lakeshore (see the Lake Erie Flood Zone Lookup tool to learn more about Flood Zones and their impacts).

Individuals currently staying at properties along the lake are encouraged to leave and return to their permanent residences. Permanent residents should shelter in place until otherwise directed by emergency officials, unless at any time they feel their safety is in jeopardy, in which case they should leave immediately. Preparations are underway should evacuations be deemed necessary.

The MNRF surge model forecast for the eastern end of Lake Erie is indicating a rise in levels of 2.98 metres (9.8 feet) above chart datum. The peak above critical lake levels is forecast to occur this evening between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m, before receding overnight.

Haldimand County Emergency Services is urging residents to stay away from all shoreline areas and roadways. It is NEVER safe to drive through floodwater. Emergency Services is also reminding residents to only call 911 if their safety is at risk. Emergency Services is not able to pump out flooded basements.

Haldimand County Emergency Services will continue monitoring conditions throughout Sunday. Residents should pay close attention to changing weather conditions and watch for updated flood messages. A flood guide for lakeshore property owners and other emergency preparedness resources can be found at HaldimandCounty.ca/floods.

Further updates on this weather event will be shared as the forecast evolves.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Haldimand County is under the jurisdiction of three conservation authorities. Weather advisories and impacts may vary based on a given location’s position on the shoreline. You can look up a property or specific location and obtain information about flood impacts using the Lake Erie Flood Zone Lookup tool.

Current advisories and flood messages are available on conservation authority websites:

Grand River Conservation Authority
Long Point Region Conservation Authority
Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority

STORM CONTACT INFORMATION FOR RESIDENTS

  • If you feel your safety is at risk, dial 911
  • To report a public roadway obstruction (e.g: downed tree, water or debris over a road) call the after-hours reporting line at 1-888-849-7345.