Winds diminishing but wave action continues
The Flood Warning issued for the Lake Huron shoreline on Sunday Nov. 1, 2020 has been downgraded to a Shoreline Conditions Statement – Water Safety. The low pressure system that brought high winds and snow over the weekend is moving out of the area. West winds will be 30 km/hour this afternoon gusting to 50 km/hour and 40 km/hour gusting to 60 km/hour this evening. These winds, combined with seasonally near record-high water levels on Lake Huron, will result in continued strong wave action overnight and into Tuesday morning. Although waves will be diminished, the potential remains for shoreline erosion and flooding in low-lying coastal areas.
Residents and municipal officials are reminded to stay well back from breaking waves. In addition, people should stay away from top-of-bluff areas 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.
This message will remain in effect until 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday November 3, 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.