Environment Canada’s Marine Forecast has issued a Strong Wind Warning for Lake St. Clair due to predicted strong winds this afternoon and evening out of the northwest.
Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority officials say winds are predicted to rise to 30 km/hr by mid-afternoon and to peak shortly after at around 35 km/hr with gust of 50 km/hr.
“Winds should then decrease later in the evening,” LTVCA officials say.
“These winds are predicted to raise static water levels in the area of Lighthouse Cove possibly over 6 cm. Waves on the lake are predicted to be between 0.5 and 1m in height. Any waves will add on to the already record high water levels.”
Due to the high water levels and wave action there is a risk of low level flooding in the community of Lighthouse Cove this afternoon and evening, LTVCA officials say.
“There is also an increased risk of shoreline erosion and damage to shoreline protection works in the Lighthouse Cove area as well as along the Lake St. Clair shoreline nearby in Chatham-Kent. Residents of Lighthouse Cove and landowners along the Lake St. Clair shoreline should be prepared and pay attention to local conditions.”
People should take extra caution and avoid the shoreline should conditions get rough, LTVCA officials say.
“The winds can be strong and the shoreline slippery. There could also be hazardous debris in water which could get thrown up onto the shoreline. Standing water can also present unseen hazards. Children and animals should be kept away from the water.”
Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update this advisory if necessary.
This message will be in effect until June 11th, 2019.
