Environment Canada’s Marine Forecast has issued a Gale wind warning for Western Lake Erie.
Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority officials say forecasts are calling for strong sustained winds with speeds over 35 km/hr from the south (southeast through southwest) overnight tonight through Wednesday.
“During the late overnight period winds are forecasted to be from the southeast with wind speeds of 45 km/hr and gusts up to 70 km/hr,” LTVCA officials say.
“Through the morning, winds will shift to the southwest and remain high. Tuesday afternoon winds are forecasted to reach 60 km/hr with gusts up to 90 km/hr (possibly higher over the water). Tuesday evening, winds are expected to shift more westerly and decrease to around 35 km/hr where they are forecasted to remain throughout the day Wednesday. Waves are forecasted to reach 2-3 m in height on Tuesday.”
Strong winds will be driving waves onto our 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 say.
“In flood prone areas such as Erie Shore Drive, and some specific areas around Wheatley, there is a risk of flooding caused by waves crashing against the shoreline protection works and spraying water up onto the land. While winds are from the southeast direction, there is also a risk for the Rose Beach Line area in Chatham-Kent as recently strong winds from that direction have caused erosion in the area and caused sand to block the outlets of creeks and municipal drainage leading to backup flooding. This could also occur along other areas of the shoreline. Residents along the Lake Erie shoreline should pay attention to weather forecasts and prepare accordingly.”
LTVCA officials say people should take extra caution and avoid the shoreline should conditions get rough.
“The waves can be strong and the shoreline slippery. There could also be hazardous debris within the waves and water which could be thrown onto the shoreline. Standing water can also present unseen hazards. Children and pets should be kept away from the water.”
Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update this advisory if necessary.
