DUNKIRK – The Chautauqua County Office of Emergency Services is monitoring the high levels of Lake Erie as it continues to rise.

Lake Erie is at levels 30 inches above the long term average level for the month of May. The high water level is due to persistent wet conditions and high stream flows this spring.

Nearly all the Great Lakes are currently seeing their daily levels higher than average, with some reaching a record high monthly mean levels for May.

Through the New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, the Chautauqua County Office of Emergency Services has 10,000 unfilled sandbags as a precaution if Lake Erie continues to rise.

The sandbags and a filling machine will be stored in Dunkirk for rapid deployment if needed.

“With Memorial Day Weekend and the beginning of the summer season upon us, residents and visitors should be aware of high water levels while still enjoying all of the great activities in and around Lake Erie,” said George Borrello, Chautauqua County Executive. “I thank our partners at the state for their assistance in emergency preparedness and also our Federal partners including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for monitoring the situation.”

The Chautauqua County Office of Emergency Services will continue to monitor the lake levels and shoreline. The Lake Erie Water levels are expected to remain high into the summer season as all the Great Lakes are experiencing high water levels.