Strong winds and high waves will cause flooding and erosion problems

A low pressure system is continuing to move through Ontario bringing a cold front with strong northwest winds and lake effect snow to the Lake Huron shoreline. Winds of 50 km/hour gusting to 70 km/hour are expected this morning. By Sunday afternoon the forecast shows sustained northwest winds of 70 km/hour with gusts of over 100 km/hour possible. Early Monday morning the winds will diminish to 40 km/hour with gusts of up to 60 km/hour.

These winds will create significant wave heights. There is the potential for 4 to 5 metre waves at the peak of the storm. The most intense waves are expected to impact the shoreline near midnight this evening. The strong winds will also push more water towards the shoreline. The combined high lake level and very strong winds will result in widespread erosion of both beaches and the lakeshore bluff. Flooding will occur in low-lying coastal areas including Port Albert and the Goderich Port and waterfront. Structures located at the bottom of shoreline bluffs will be at significant risk for flooding.

This storm is expected to have a more significant impact than those experienced in recent years. For comparison, this storm will be a larger event than what occurred at the end of October in 2019.

In addition, people should stay away from the shoreline including 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. We’re recommending that Municipal officials use extreme caution and stay away from the shoreline during the storm except for critical municipal infrastructure operations and public safety roles.

This message will remain in effect until noon on Monday November 2, 2020, unless local conditions warrant further updates. Maitland Conservation will continue to monitor conditions and will provide an update if required.

Contact:
Stephen Jackson, Flood and Erosion Safety Services Coordinator
sjackson@mvca.on.ca or 519-357-0890

Media Inquiries:
Jayne Thompson, Communications Coordinator
jthompson@mvca.on.ca 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.