As of the most recent briefing (April 9) from the International Lake Ontario-St. Lawrence River Board (ILOSRB), Lake Ontario water levels sit at 75.28 m, which is 44 cm above average, but 36 cm below the record-high for this time of year set in 1973, it said.
It quoted forecasts from ILOSRB which suggest that levels will continue to rise over the next several weeks as spring continues and high inflows from Lake Erie persist. The rate at which it rises will depend on weather conditions, such as temperature, snowmelt, and rainfall.
A strengthening low-pressure system is forecast to move through Southern Ontario Sunday through Monday, bringing heavy rain and wind and risks of thunderstorms. Areas within the Cloca jurisdiction could receive as much as 30–35 mm of rain within a 24-hour period, it said.
Higher than normal water levels and flows can be expected in streams, especially in the vicinity of culverts and bridges. Strong, south winds are also expected, with gusts up to 80 km/h possible by Monday afternoon, which could result in increased wave activity and uprush around the Lake Ontario shoreline, it added.
Cloca 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 Monday April 27, or until further notice. The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority will continue to monitor the conditions and will provide updates as required.
Information on flood preparedness:
- https://www.clarington.net/en/live-here/resources/Emergency-and-Fire-Safety/FloodingPreparedness-Guide.pdf
- https://www.ontario.ca/page/floods