NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
May 4, 2018
St. Thomas – Kettle Creek Conservation Authority (KCCA) is issuing a watershed conditions statement—water safety for the shoreline of Lake Erie.
For the north shore of Lake Erie, already strong winds are predicted to rise throughout the day resulting in potential surge related flooding. Wave heights of 2 m can be expected during the afternoon for some locations.
Wind gusts of up to 70 to 80 km/h are likely this afternoon, with gusts up to 90km/h possible.
Lake Erie levels can be expected to rise throughout the afternoon peaking Friday evening. Winds and any potential Lake surge are expected to diminish overnight Friday.
Residents are asked to closely monitor local conditions and avoid the shoreline. The waves can be strong and the shoreline will be slippery. There is a risk that wave action could damage shoreline protection and cause shoreline erosion. Wave action may cause elevated water levels and localized flooding along the shoreline.
Updates will be made available if conditions warrant. This statement will be in effect until May 5, 2018. For further updates log on to www.kettlecreekconservation.on.ca or connect with Kettle Creek Conservation Authority socially on Twitter @KettleCreekCA or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/KettleCreekCa.
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Marianne Levogiannis
Public Relations Supervisor
519-631-1270 x224
The Kettle Creek Conservation Authority issues three levels of messages:
- Watershed Conditions Statement: a general notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding. There are two variations of these:
- Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected
- 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.