Lake Ontario’s water level continues to slowly rise. Relatively drier weather has permitted Ottawa River flows to decline and allowed for Lake Ontario outflows to be increased substantially.
With precipitation forecasted for the coming week and record inflows continuing from Lake Erie into Lake Ontario, it is anticipated that water levels will rise gradually and reach or slightly exceed those of 2017 within the coming week.
As of May 22, 2019, Lake Ontario was recorded at 76 cm above average for this time of year, which is 5 cm below the recorded level for May 22, 2017. This amount is 7 cm below the peak recorded on May 25, 2017.
It is anticipated that Lake Ontario water levels will decline throughout the summer but will remain near seasonal highs for at least the next several weeks.
Lake Ontario water levels are influenced by uncontrolled, above average outflows from Lake Erie, and local rainfall and runoff throughout the Lake Ontario Watershed, and reduced Lake Ontario outflows, in order to balance flooding impacts on the St. Lawrence River. Record breaking water levels for this time of year have been recorded for Lake Erie. Above average precipitation was received across the Great Lakes over the past three months. Flood conditions continue on the lower St. Lawrence River.
Outflows from Lake Ontario will continue to increase as rapidly as conditions will allow in accordance with the Plan 2014 F-Limit.
Flooding and other high water impacts have been reported from areas of Lake Ontario and the upper St. Lawrence River during periods of strong winds.
Shoreline residents are advised to either secure or remove loose items from their properties where there is a risk of encroaching flood water. Sandbags can be effective in protecting residences. Sandbags are not intended to protect shorelines and accessory buildings. For more information on shoreline protection, contact the Quinte Conservation office and speak with expert staff in the planning and regulations department.
Boaters need to be cautious of floating debris and should take proper safety precautions when out on the water. Boaters should reduce speeds and wakes when boating along shorelines to reduce the localized flooding and erosion.
It is important that the public never wade through or play in flood water as it is extremely unsafe. Flood water can be contaminated with septic and hazardous debris.
Residents concerned that their shoreline well or septic has been compromised, should contact their local health unit. Do not drink the water and find an alternative water source to use. This message does not apply to municipal drinking water systems.
Residents are advised to obey any posted road closure signs and to check with their municipality for updates on road closures and boat launch closures.
Staff will continue to monitor conditions and will provide an update if forecasts and conditions change. For current water levels or to report any observations of flooding, residents are encouraged to visit QuinteConservation.ca.
A FLOOD WARNING statement indicates that 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.
This message will be in effect until (or updated if anything significant changes before) Tuesday, June 4, 2019.
(PRESS RELEASE FROM QUINTE CONSERVATION)
