Shoreline Conditions Statement – Water Safety

Shoreline Condition Statement - Water Safety
Successive high wind events expected over next few days

A series of low pressure systems are forecasted to track through the Great Lakes region and bring successive high wind events to the Lake Huron shoreline. Strong northwest winds with associated wave action are expected in three distinct events: the first beginning this afternoon and continuing until Friday morning; quickly followed by a second event all day on Saturday; with a third occurring Monday night. Each event is expected to last approximately 12 hours. The event forecasted for Monday has the potential bring the greatest peak gusts yet this season. Widespread erosion of both beaches and the lakeshore bluff will continue as will the potential for bluff failures. Minor flooding is also possible 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 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.

This message will remain in effect until 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday December 7, 2021, unless local conditions warrant further updates. Maitland Conservation will continue to monitor conditions and will provide an update if required. 

- End of Message - 

Contact:
Jeff Winzenried, Water Resources Technician
jwinzenried@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.