The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (Cloca) yesterday said that Lake Ontario water levels continue to rise, nearing levels that could result in flooding of low-lying areas, in combination with storm surges and wave uprush.
As of the most recent briefing (April 23) from the International Lake Ontario-St. Lawrence River Board (ILOSRB), Lake Ontario water levels sit at 75.35 m, which is 40 cm above average, but 34 cm below the record-high for this time of year set in 1973, said a Cloca statement.
While current levels sit close to those seen at this time in 2019, forecasts from the ILOSRB suggests that Lake Ontario is on track to peak well below the record-highs of 2017 and 2019 due to favourable weather conditions thus far. However, Lake Ontario will continue its gradual rise over the next several weeks as spring continues and high inflows from Lake Erie persist, it added.
Heavy rain, wind, and risks of thunderstorms
A strong low-pressure system is forecast to move through Southern Ontario early Wednesday (April 29) through Thursday (April 30), bringing heavy rain, wind, and risks of thunderstorms. Areas within the Cloca jurisdiction could receive as much as 30–50 mm of rain within a two-day period. Higher than normal water levels and flows can be expected in our streams, especially in the vicinity of culverts and bridges. Strong, east winds are also expected, with gusts up to 50 km/h possible on Wednesday, which could result in increased wave activity and uprush around the Lake Ontario shoreline, said Cloca.
It advised residents to avoid and/or exercise caution around all Lake Ontario shoreline areas and other watercourses. Elevated water levels, waves, and eroded bluffs and shorelines all pose safety concerns.
“Use extra caution, stay away from any areas experiencing erosion or any areas that are flooded, and alert any children under your care of these dangers and supervise their activities. Residents and property owners in locations susceptible to shoreline flooding should prepare for flooding,” it said.
As rising water levels are forecast to continue over the next several weeks, this Lake Ontario Shoreline Flood Watch will be in effect through Sunday May 31, 2020, or until further notice. The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority will continue to monitor the conditions and will provide updates as required.