That was one heck of a seiche! (updated)

LOCAL2 weather expert Jerry Shields put together the above chart that illustrates the change in water level at the Canadian Hydrographic Service's Gros Cap measuring station during the seiche last evening that led to flooding in the city's west end along the Lake Superior shore.

"What's amazing is the oscillation after the main event as Lake Superior 'sloshes' back and forth to try to reach equilibrium!!" wrote Shields. "Wow! Gotta love the impact and power of the weather!"

The following is a release from the Sault Ste. Marie Fire Services.

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During the early evening hours of September 4, 2014, Sault Ste. Marie Fire Services responded to the Cottage Lane area of the City for a phenomenon known as a SEICHE.

The US Army Corps of Engineers describes the SEICHE effect as a water surge that can be caused by a sudden change in atmospheric pressure.

Residents in the area were very concerned as water levels raised suddenly over the beachfront and encroached onto their properties.

No structural damage to any of the homes was reported and as a precautionary measure the Public Utilities Commission was called in to disconnect power to the area.

Eventually water levels began to recede, within ninety minutes the water was back to normal levels and power was restored.

As a result of the water surge Fire Services cautioned area residents to test their potable water quality before consuming it.

Fire Services would like to remind residents that water and electricity are a bad combination and to always avoid using electricity near water.

Homes evacuated after Lake Superior surge (10 photos)