water safety - lake ontario and st lawrence river
Cataraqui Conservation has issued a Shoreline Conditions Statement today due to forecasted strong winds and resulting storm surge and high waves.

 

The Surface Water Monitoring Centre (SWMC) of the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources & Forestry (NDMNRF) is forecasting increased water levels due to storm surge and wave heights.

Weather Situation:

A significant Colorado Low is forecast to move into the province over the next several days bringing high winds across the lower Great Lakes.

Risks:

The SWMC forecasted storm surge values for eastern Lake Ontario on April 14 and 15 might be high enough to cause localized shoreline erosion and inundation of low-lying areas.

Cataraqui Conservation is urging residents to take care along the shoreline.

For further information on water levels, wind and wave forecasts, and Provincial flood messages visit https://cataraquiconservation.ca/pages/flood.

For information directly from the International Lake Ontario – St. Lawrence River Board (ILOSLRB) visit:

Cataraqui Conservation staff will continue to monitor ILOSLRB water level forecasts, Surface Water Monitoring Centre Provincial Statements, local water levels, and update Cataraqui Conservation messaging as needed. This Shoreline Conditions Statement will remain in effect until (or updated before) 11:59 PM April 16, 2022.

See below for watershed conditions terminology:

Normal: No flood conditions exist

Shoreline Conditions Statement – Water Safety: Higher than average water levels, unsafe banks, or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users and shoreline residents. Widespread flooding is not expected.

Shoreline Conditions Statement – Flood Outlook: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather and lake conditions.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourse 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.