Lake Ontario water level high, but below record level

Lake Ontario is likely to remain below record-highs through the spring, according to the latest update provided by the International Lake Ontario-St. Lawrence River Board.

While the water level on Lake Ontario is still well above average for this time of year, it is well below the record level. Favourable weather conditions this spring and increased outflows from Lake Ontario into the St. Lawrence River have kept the water level below the record-highs.

Lake Ontario’s level was 75.35 m (247.21 ft) as of April 22. This is 40 cm (15.7 in) above average, but also:

34 cm (13.4 in) below the record-high for this time of year set in 1973
11 cm (4.3 in) below the water level on the same date in 2017
13 cm (5.1 in.) above the level on the same date in 2019

A mild winter and early spring, along with moderately wet conditions so far this year, have resulted in less water flowing into Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River when compared to 2017 and 2019. That has allowed the release of outflows near or above record-rates over the past several months.

Despite the optimistic forecast, the municipality is still taking action as an emergency contingency.

Twelve depots across the municipality are being monitored to keep them well stocked with sand and sandbags. Visit the County website for the complete list of locations. The municipality is also undertaking work to protect key roads where access is threatened during high water levels.