The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) is calling for strong winds and high waves for the Lake Erie shoreline.
“Weather forecasts are calling for southerly winds (southeast through southwest) on Lake Erie this afternoon through Friday,” LTVCA officials stated in a watershed conditions safety bulletin issued Tuesday afternoon.
“During this period sustained wind speeds from 25 km/hr through 40 km/hr, gusting to up to 50 km/hr at times, are expected. Environment Canada’s Marine Forecasts are predicting wave heights on Lake Erie to be around 1 m. Lake Erie water levels today are up 10 cm from where they were at the beginning of May.”
LTVCA officials say southerly winds will be driving the waves onto the Lake Erie shoreline in Chatham-Kent and Elgin County.
“There is a risk that wave action could damage shoreline protection works and cause shoreline erosion,” LTVCA officials stated.
“There could also be localized flooding due to waves crashing against the shoreline protection spraying water up onto the land. Residents along the Lake Erie shoreline should be prepared. Wind speeds are not predicted to be as high as they were a few weeks ago when flooding and erosion damage was experienced along Erie Shore Drive in Chatham-Kent. However, lake water levels are up slightly since then. Residents should pay close attention to weather forecasts and predicted wind speeds.”
LTVCA officials say people should take extra caution and avoid the shoreline should conditions get rough over the next few days.
“The combination of slippery banks and cold water can be dangerous,” LTVCA officials stated.
“Standing water can also present its own unseen hazards. Children, pets and livestock should be kept away from the water.”
LTVCA officials say they will continue to monitor the situation and update this advisory if necessary.
Their message will be in effect until May 20.
