The Lower Thames Conservation Authority has issued a flood watch for the Lake Erie shoreline, specifically Erie Shore Drive.
LTVCA officials say a Strong Wind Warning has been issued by Environment Canada due to strong winds in the forecast for Lake Erie on Wednesday.
“Southwest winds are predicted to rise overnight (on Tuesday), possibly reaching speeds above 30 km/hr early (Wednesday) morning,” LTVCA officials stated.
“Winds are predicted to stay strong throughout the day potentially reaching speeds of 40 km/hr with gusts of 60 km/hr. Winds are then predicted to drop in the evening and switch to a more westerly direction. Forecasts suggest wave heights on Lake Erie could reach up to 1.5 m in height.”
Strong winds will be driving waves onto the Lake Erie shoreline in Chatham-Kent and Elgin County throughout the day Wednesday.
“There is a risk that wave action could damage shoreline protection works and cause erosion, all along the Lake Erie shoreline, including along the high bluff areas. Low lying areas and communities are also at risk of flooding.”
The area most likely to be impacted is the Erie Shore Drive area in Chatham-Kent, LTVCA officials stated.
“The winds that caused severe flooding and shoreline damage, and triggered a State of Emergency for Erie Shore Drive on August 27th, had peaked at speeds of around 35 km/hr,” officials say.
“Forecasts are calling for 40 km/hr winds during the day (Wednesday). Residents and emergency responders should be prepared. For information regarding the provision of municipal services and road closures, please contact the municipality of Chatham-Kent at 519-360-1998.”
LTVCA officials added: “People should take extra caution and avoid the shoreline should conditions get rough. The waves on the lakes can be strong and the shoreline slippery. There could also be hazardous debris within the waves and water which could be thrown onto the shore. 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 September 26, 2019.
