Lake Superior water levels decline a little more than usual in December

Though Lake Superior is coming off a month in which the water level declined 12 cm, which is slightly more than the average 8 cm decline the lake sees in December historically, according to a release issued Thursday by the Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority.

Following is a full release from the Conservation Authority regarding the Lake Superior water levels:

The Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority (SSMRCA) is advising that Lake Superior water levels continue to decline but are still well above average and the risk of high-water impacts remains. Lake Superior outflows continue to be set in consideration of high levels upstream and downstream.

Last month, Lake Superior declined 12 cm, while on average (1918 - 2019) it declines 8 cm in December. Water levels of Lake Superior are expected to continue their seasonal declines in January. However, there will continue to be an increased risk of shoreline erosion, lakeshore flooding and coastal damages over the next several weeks and potentially throughout the winter.

Currently, the Lake Superior water level is approximately 183.58 m IGLD85. This level is currently 21 cm above the average (1918 - 2019) and 16 cm below the level seen during the same time period in 2020. For additional reference, the SSMRCA shoreline flooding hazard level used for planning and development review is 184.2 m.

SSMRCA advises all shoreline property owners to prepare for potential coastal impacts such as erosion, lakeshore flooding, crawl space and septic system inundation especially during periods of strong winds and high waves.

SSMRCA staff continue to monitor Lake Superior wind conditions and lake levels closely.

This statement is in effect until (or updated before) Feb. 15, 2021.