A state of emergency has been declared for Cayuga County communities along Lake Ontario.
Water levels continue to rise, creating a risk of flooding and shoreline damage.
- No wake zones in effect
- Lake Ontario about two feet higher than average
- Similar state of emergency measures in effect in Monroe County
Under the state of emergency, no wake zones are in effect for the shorelines of Lake Ontario and Little Sodus Bay in the Town of Sterling.
"It's always everybody's leading conversation is the water problem,” said Ralph Waldron, a Fair Haven homeowner. “It’s unfortunate that it keeps happening and so frequently."
This is the second time in three years residents have had those conversations. Lake Ontario is about two feet higher than average for this time of year and it's about a foot away from reaching record heights — records that were just set in 2017.
“The real damage here is in the businesses who don’t sell gas because people aren't boating,” said Andrew Lewand, a Fair Haven homeowner. “My boat isn’t in, because my dock isn't permanent. I'm going to lose a month of boating time and that’s filling up the gas tank twice a week at the local marina."
The International Joint Commission said it is constantly monitoring the lake's water levels. Its goal is to minimize damage along the Great Lakes and Saint Lawrence River, but some are asking for more.
"We need dry weather, sun and some political action to fix it," pleaded Lewand.
High water levels and floating debris can cause hazardous conditions for boaters as well. Use caution if you are navigating the water in any way.
Monroe County has a similar order in place.
The state has deployed additional National Guard members to offer help to those who need it.
If you need any resources like sandbags or an aquadam just call the New York State Watch Center at 518-292-2200.