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Shoreline Conditions Statement – Lake Superior Flood Watch
Posted: Dec 15, 2020

Shoreline Conditions Statement – Lake Superior Flood Watch

Issued December 15, 2020@ 8:30 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.

Lake Superior levels are still well above average and the risk of high-water impacts remains. Last month, Lake Superior declined 3 cm when on average it declines 5 cm in November. Water levels of Lake Superior are expected to continue their seasonal declines in December. However, there will continue to be an increased risk of shoreline erosion, lakeshore flooding and coastal damages over the next several weeks and potentially through the winter.

Currently, the Lake Superior water level is approximately 183.70 m IGLD85. The level is currently 25 cm above average (1918 - 2019). At the beginning of December, the lake level was 8 cm below its level at the same time in 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 high waves.

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

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

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For further information contact: 

Anjum Amin, P.Eng.
SSMRCA
705-946-8530 ext.# 1003
aamin@ssmrca.ca