Shoreline Conditions Statement – Lake Superior Flood Watch

Issued October 14, 2020@ 12:30 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.

Conditions across the Great Lakes basin were slightly drier than average last month. As a result, Lake Superior declined 2 cm when on average it declines 1 cm. Water levels of Lake Superior remain near or above record highs. Water levels are expected to remain high and there will continue to be a significantly increased risk of shoreline erosion, lakeshore flooding and coastal damages as high-water levels persist.

Currently, Lake Superior water level is approximately 183.78 m IGLD85. The level is currently 25 cm above average (1918-2019). At the beginning of October, the lake level is 10 cm below the record-high beginning-of-month level set last year (2019). 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, coastal damages, beach submersion, crawl space and septic system inundation especially during periods of strong winds and storm surge.

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

This statement is in effect until (or updated before) November 13, 2020.

# # #

For further information: