Lakeshore Flood Warnings Issued for Erie, Chautauqua, and Alger Counties

BUFFALO, N.Y. — The National Weather Service issued a lakeshore flood warning Monday for Erie and Chautauqua counties, effective from 10 a.m. until 4 a.m. Tuesday. A separate lakeshore flood advisory was issued for Alger County, Michigan, from 4 p.m. Monday until 1 a.m. Tuesday.

The weather service warned of significant flooding along the eastern end of Lake Erie, including areas such as Route 5 in Hamburg, Buffalo Harbor, Canalside, and Dunkirk Harbor. “Lakeshore flooding expected,” the agency stated. “Very high wave action will also result in significant shoreline erosion.”

Residents were urged to avoid breakwaters, piers, and beaches due to dangerous wave conditions. “Waves are often larger than they appear and can easily wash you away,” the weather service cautioned. The agency also warned of potential road closures, debris, and hazardous boating conditions.

In Alger County, minor flooding was anticipated, with water expected to affect low-lying roads and properties. “Residents on or near the shore should take appropriate action to protect property from rising water levels,” the weather service advised.

Flood warnings are issued when flooding is imminent or already occurring, while advisories indicate less severe but still hazardous conditions. The weather service emphasized the importance of moving to higher ground, adhering to evacuation orders, and avoiding floodwaters. “Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can forcefully sweep you off your feet,” the agency noted.

Residents were also advised to disconnect utilities and appliances if time permits, avoid submerged areas with electrical hazards, and seek higher ground if trapped. “Most cars can be swept away by just 12 inches of rushing water,” the weather service warned, urging drivers to avoid flooded roads.

The warnings come as part of a broader effort by the National Weather Service to mitigate risks during severe weather events. Advance Local Weather Alerts, a service powered by United Robots, uses machine learning to compile and disseminate weather data.