by Kevin Zimmermann
(WHBL) – If you’re planning a day at the beach you might have to check ahead if there’s a beach to enjoy, as Lake Michigan water levels keep setting records. A new monthly mean water level record for May was observed this year, exceeding the level last seen in 1986.
According to the Army Corps of Engineers, heavy rain in mid-May was blamed for sustained high levels, and with seasonal peaks normally reached in July, levels then could come close to surpassing the all-time record high water level set in October of ‘86.
The Army Corps’ John Allis of the Detroit District Office warns that anyone impacted by high waters last year can expect more of the same – or even worse – this time around. The Sheboygan area shoreline has already seen significant beach and bluff erosion, while the riverfront area has seen occasional flooding when winds, waves and rains combine to hold waters at the mouth of the Sheboygan River.
The Army Corps of Engineers can provide technical assistance in the construction of temporary flood protection measures as well as direct assistance to state, county and local officials.
To find more information about Great Lakes high water, emergency management and the permit process visit this link: https://www.lre.usace.army.mil/About/Great-Lakes-High-Water/
