Storm surge warning issued for Tuktoyaktuk, N.W.T.

Environment Canada has issued a storm surge warning for the Beaufort Sea coastline around Tuktoyaktuk, N.W.T., with moderate flooding expected Thursday evening.

The weather agency said the highest water levels are expected to reach up to 95 centimetres above the highest astronomical tide. The warning covers the coastline from Mackenzie Bay to McKinley Bay, including Tuktoyaktuk, and is in effect until about 11 p.m. MT.

Environment Canada said the conditions can damage infrastructure near the coast, including boats beached or anchored along the shoreline. The agency issues such warnings when high water levels pose a threat to coastal areas because of tides, storm surge or waves.

Residents near the water should move boats and equipment away from the shore and avoid low-lying areas along the coast while water levels are high. The agency has rated the impact as moderate and its confidence in the forecast as high.

Strong wind is also affecting the region. A separate wind warning is in place for Paulatuk, where west winds gusting to 90 km/h are expected Thursday evening, weakening overnight. Environment Canada said some property damage is possible and urged people to secure loose objects.

The agency asked residents to keep monitoring its alerts and forecasts. Severe weather can be reported to [email protected], by calling 1-800-239-0484 or on social media with the hashtag #NTStorm. Current warnings are posted on the Environment Canada website.

Coastal flooding is a recurring concern in the North. Earlier this week, snow squalls hit B.C. Interior highways and Edmonton saw its first big snowfall as the cold season set in across the country.

If you find reporting like this useful, consider supporting Canada News Media, an independent Canadian newsroom with no corporate parent.