At 1:50 a.m. Sunday, the National Weather Service issued a lakeshore flood warning in effect for Monday between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m. for North Erie and South Erie, as well as Chautauqua County.
The weather service says, “Significant lakeshore flooding is expected. Rapid rises are expected Monday morning with the highest levels late Monday morning and afternoon.”
“A rapid rise in water levels will result in lakeshore flooding along Lake Erie and the banks of the Upper Niagara River. Along the Lake Erie shoreline, flooding is likely along Route 5 in Hamburg, Buffalo Harbor and Canalside, Dunkirk Harbor and other flood-prone locations,” the weather service explained. “A lakeshore flood warning means that lakeshore flooding is occurring, imminent, or expected. For your safety, stay away from breakwaters, piers, rock outcroppings, and beaches! Waves are often larger than they appear and can easily wash you away. Expect significant beach and debris erosion, local road closures, and extremely hazardous boating conditions.”
Breakdown of weather alerts: alerts, watches and warnings
- Flash Flood Warning: Get Started!
A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is threatened or occurs. If you are in a flood prone area, move to higher ground immediately. A flash flood is a sudden flash flood that can take minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas where it is not raining immediately.
- Flood Warning: Act!
A flood warning is issued when floods are on the verge of occurring or already underway.
- Flood Warning: Keep in mind:
A flood warning is issued when flooding is not expected to be severe enough to issue a warning. However, it can cause significant inconvenience and, if care is not taken, can lead to situations that may endanger life and/or property.
- Flood Watch: Be Prepared:
A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not guarantee that flooding will occur, but it does mean that the possibility exists.
When Floods Strike: Weather Service Guidelines for Your Protection
In flood-prone areas or when camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the Met Office’s flood safety guidelines can save a life:
Move to a higher level:
If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in low-lying terrain, the first step to safety is to move to higher ground.
Follow evacuation orders:
When local authorities issue an evacuation order, obey immediately. Secure your home by locking it before you leave.
Disconnect utilities and appliances:
If time permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This reduces the risk of electric shock when flooded.
Avoid flooded basements and submerged areas:
Avoid basements or rooms where electrical outlets or cables are submerged in water. This helps prevent electric shocks.
Rapid evacuation for your safety:
Evacuate immediately if you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, cracking or cracking. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.
Avoid walking in flood waters:
Never try to walk through flood water. Even just 6 inches of fast moving water can violently knock you off your feet.
Seek high ground if you are trapped:
If you become trapped in moving water, get to the highest point possible and call 911 to contact emergency services.
When heavy rain occurs, there is a possibility of flooding, especially in areas that are low-lying or prone to flooding. It is important that you never drive through water on the road, even if it appears to be shallow. As little as 12 inches of fast-flowing water can wash away most vehicles, according to the weather service. Prioritize your safety by being informed and prepared.
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