A lakeshore flood warning has been issued for Buffalo, NY, as rapidly rising water levels along Lake Erie’s shore pose significant risks to low-lying areas. The National Weather Service (NWS) has flagged conditions ripe for major lakeshore flooding, with alerts running from 4 a.m. Monday through 1 a.m. Tuesday, impacting Erie and Chautauqua counties .
The NWS released a flood watch at 12:54 p.m. on Saturday, valid from Monday 4 a.m. until Tuesday 1 a.m., affecting Northern Erie, Southern Erie, and Chautauqua County . The warning is in effect from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST on Monday, with the highest water levels expected late Monday morning and afternoon . The flood watch covers areas including Buffalo, Hamburg, Dunkirk, and Canalside, where flooding is likely along Route 5 in Hamburg, Buffalo Harbor, Canalside, Dunkirk Harbor, and other flood-prone locations . Very high wave action is also anticipated, exacerbating the flooding risks .
Residents are urged to stay off breakwaters, piers, rock outcroppings, and beaches for their safety . The NWS issued a warning that rapid rises in water levels are anticipated, and the flooding is expected to occur, is imminent, or is already happening . The flood warning is part of a broader hazardous weather outlook that includes high wind warnings and winter storm warnings .
The lakeshore flood watch is in effect for all of Western New York, with forecasters warning of a rapid rise in water levels and dangerous wave action expected to begin Wednesday evening through Thursday morning . The watch covers Erie and Chautauqua counties, including Buffalo, Hamburg, Dunkirk, and Canalside . Rainfall up to 1.5 inches is predicted to fall Sunday into Monday, adding to the flooding risks .
A high wind watch has also been issued from Monday 4:00 a.m. until Tuesday 1:00 a.m. EST, necessitating preparations as per the instructions from the NWS . The flood watch starts at 4 a.m. Monday and continues until 1 a.m. Tuesday, with the weather conditions expected to worsen over the weekend .
The situation underscores the importance of heeding weather alerts and taking necessary precautions to ensure safety during these hazardous weather conditions. Residents should stay informed through reliable weather services and follow the guidance provided by local authorities to mitigate the risks associated with the lakeshore flood warning and flood watch.
