For the first time in 258 days, Lake Erie Water levels have dropped below 573.4 feet. This level is significant as it marks the Ordinary High Water Mark for Lake Erie, which is based on International Great Lakes Datum 1985.

March was another record month for Lake Erie water levels at 574 feet. This monthly average is 3 inches higher than the previous March record of 573.75 feet set in 1986. On March 31, 2020, Lake Erie’s water levels are 574.36 feet.

January 2020 brought two things – high lake levels and warm temperatures.

As colder air masses move over a warm Lake Erie, people who frequent the coast should notice a change – decreasing lake levels.

Over the summer months, Cleveland Water staff have been closely watching as the waters of Lake Erie separate into distinct layers – a layer of warm water at the surface and a cold water layer at the bottom of the lake.

In Lake Erie’s recorded history, we’ve never seen water levels this high.

Every summer, as the temperature of Lake Erie slowly climbs in advance of the annual lake stratification, Cleveland Water closely monitors the lake's water quality for any issues that might follow.

Our 1.4 million customers are part of the more than 12 million people who rely on Lake Erie as their source of drinking water. Clean water and a healthy Lake Erie is critical not only for our community to survive but for it to thrive as a region that leverages its assets to build economic, social and environmental well-being for all.

Each year Cleveland Water issues a Water Quality Report for our customers. This annual report, also called a Consumer Confidence Report, provides a review of our water quality during the past year, including testing results and information.