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Flood Outlook – Lake Superior Shoreline - April 21, 2020
Posted: Apr 21, 2020
Shoreline Conditions Statement - Lake Superior Flood Outlook

Issued April 21, 2020 @ 3:00 pm

The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority (SSMRCA) is advising that Lake Superior water levels remain well above normal. There are observations, reports, and expectations of shoreline erosion or flooding currently.

Wet conditions returned to the Great Lakes this past month and the water levels of Lake Superior rose slightly more than they typically do in March. An exceptional volume of water remains in the system and all of the Great Lakes remain near or above record-high water levels for this time of year.

Currently, Lake Superior water levels are approximately 183.60 m IGLD85. Lake Superior rose 2 cm over the course of the month, while on average the water level declines 1 cm in March. At the beginning of April, Lake Superior is 2 cm below the record-high beginning-of-month level set in 1986. The level is currently 36 cm above average (1918-2019) and 4 cm above the level recorded at this time last year. For additional reference, the SSMRCA shoreline flooding hazard level used for planning and development review is 184.2 m

SSMRCA advises all shoreline property owners to prepare for potentially severe coastal impacts such as significant erosion, lakeshore flooding, and coastal damages, especially during periods of strong winds and high waves.

SSMRCA staff continue to monitor Lake Superior wind conditions and lake levels closely.

This statement is in effect until (or updated before) May 15, 2020.

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For further information:

Anjum Amin, P.Eng.
SSMRCA
705-946-8530 ext.# 1003