Port Colborne, Ontario residents are being told to brace for potential flash flooding as a slow-moving storm system threatens to dump up to 75 millimetres of rain on the region through Tuesday morning, July 28, 2026.
The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) issued a flood outlook on July 27, warning of severe thunderstorms capable of producing torrential downpours. Environment Canada has also put a strong wind warning in place for eastern Lake Erie, with sustained winds of 15 to 20 knots, while the land forecast for Port Colborne includes gusts up to 40 km/h Tuesday night.
While larger rivers are not expected to flood, the NPCA says flash flooding is likely in urban and low-lying parts of the city. Flat, poorly drained rural areas could also see water quickly overwhelm culverts and ditches. Waves on Lake Erie are forecast to reach up to one metre, creating rough conditions for boaters.
Port Colborne has seen this type of weather turn dangerous before. In November 2019, a storm surge pushed Lake Erie well above forecast levels, with wind gusts over 100 km/h and two-metre waves knocking out power to more than 3,000 homes. City crews are again monitoring drainage systems and closing flood gates where needed to keep lake water from backing up into neighbourhoods.
The NPCA is asking residents to clear debris from around catch basins and drainage features. People should also stay well away from creeks, rivers, and shoreline areas as water levels rise. The flood outlook notice remains in effect until 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. Environment Canada expects the strong wind advisory to linger through midday Wednesday.
