The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority has issued a flood watch for the Lake Erie shoreline.
LTVCA officials say strong winds from the southwest are forecasted on Lake Erie, which were set to begin overnight and last all day y=today.
“Most forecasts agree that sustained wind speeds will reach 30 km/hr sometime (today),” LTVCA officials stated.
“Some forecasts are calling for those wind speeds to be reached just after midnight tonight, while others are calling for them later in the day tomorrow. Wind gusts are forecasted to exceed 40 km/hr with some forecasts calling for up to 55 km/hr gusts. With these wind speeds, waves between 0.5 and 1 m could be expected on Lake Erie.”
LTVCA officials say there is a risk that wave action could damage shoreline protection works and cause erosion all along the Lake Erie shoreline, including the high bluff areas.
“Low lying areas and communities would also be at risk of flooding, especially Erie Shore Drive,” officials say.
“There is also a risk of thunderstorms beginning overnight and lasting all weekend. Heavy rains associated with thunderstorms could also cause flooding in low lying shoreline areas. Due to the high lake levels, the groundwater table is high and storm water sewer systems and local watercourses are full with lake water. As a result, rainwater is not draining properly from these areas. Any water from upstream making its way downstream on these watercourses into these shoreline areas could cause additional flooding.”
Conservation officials say people should take extra caution and avoid the shoreline should the weather get rough.
“Also, any waterways with elevated water levels should be avoided,” LTVCA officials say.
“The waves on the lakes can be strong, and the shoreline and the banks of waterways can be 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 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 July 20, 2019.
