THUNDER BAY – It is another sign that climate change is going to have a serious and lasting impact on Northwestern Ontario. The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority is continuing the Flood Watch for Lake Superior, within its area of jurisdiction. The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority advises that water levels on Lake Superior continue to remain well above average. Record highs on Lake Superior were previously recorded in 1950, 1952, 1985, 1986, and 2019 with all-time lows recorded in 1925, 1926 and 2007.
The beginning of February water level was 1 centimetre above the record high set in 1986, 38 centimetres above average (1918-2019) and 10 centimetres higher than the level last year. The current water level is approximately 56 centimetres lower than the 100-year flood level for Lake Superior. Assuming average water supply conditions, Lake Superior is expected to continue its seasonal decline into March; however, is expected to remain above average for a prolonged period of time.
Ice cover on Lake Superior as of February 10, 2020, was 6.8%, which is well below average, and considerably less than the over 90% ice cover experienced in 2019.
Authority Staff will continue to monitor conditions, and provide updates as necessary as part of its flood forecasting and warning program. Additional information can be found on the LRCA website www.lakeheadca.com/ great-lakes/ lake–superior-wat er–levels.
A Flood Watch is issued when there is potential for flooding. This Flood Watch will be in effect until terminated.
