CATFISH CREEK CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
LAKE ERIE SHORELINE WATER SAFETY WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
Watershed Condition Statement for Lake Erie Shoreline
Issued on December 18, 2025, at 07:00 AM
Issued by: Peter Dragunas, Water Management Technician
Catfish Creek Conservation Authority
(519) 773-9037
LAKE ERIE SHORELINE, WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT.
Effective immediately, the Catfish Creek Conservation Authority (CCCA) is issuing a Water Safety, Watershed Condition Statement for the shoreline of Lake Erie within CCCA’s administrative boundary.
A Gale warning for Lake Erie has been issued by Government of Canada, Marine Forecast and Warnings on December 18. The possibility exists for damaging winds and waves.
A potent low-pressure system (Alberta Clipper) is expected to move across southern Ontario. The system will bring strong, sustained winds to the lower Great Lakes region, affecting lake levels and causing high waves with sustained winds over Lake Erie
Today Tonight and Friday. Wind south 28km/hr. increasing to south 37km/hr. early this morning and to south 56km/hr. this evening. Wind increasing to southwest 65km/hr. overnight and to southwest 74km/hr. Friday morning. Wind diminishing to southwest 37km/hr. Friday evening. Waves 1m to 1.5m building to 2m this afternoon and to 3m to 4m Friday morning. Waves subsiding to 2m to 3m on Friday evening.
Winds across Lake Erie will result in increased lake water levels due to storm surge and wave heights, approaching or potentially exceeding local flood thresholds. The water levels are expected to peak on Friday afternoon. There is a possibility of a wave uprush along the Waneeta Beach area, Port Bruce Provincial Park beach and the Port Bruce harbour areas which have the potential to cause shoreline erosion.
Power outages are possible. Damage to buildings, such as roof shingles and windows, may occur. High winds may toss loose objects or cause tree branches to break.
Residents are asked to closely watch local conditions and take appropriate responsible action and are urged to use caution and stay away from Lake Erie shoreline areas experiencing strong wave action and elevated water levels.
Municipal flood coordinators are asked to monitor road conditions along the lakeshore.
This Watershed Condition Statement is in effect until 12:00 p.m., Saturday, Dec 20th at which time it will expire.
CCCA continues to monitor watershed conditions and will issue updates and recommendations when or if necessary. CCCA always recommends taking any necessary precautions.