A flood watch has been issued by the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority, as 10-20 mm rain is forecasted, along with a risk of thunderstorms and strong winds.
SCRCA officials say storm surge and minor flooding, and road closures are possible.
“A severe weather system tracking from the Upper Midwest is anticipated to bring strong winds, precipitation and thunderstorms tonight and into tomorrow morning,” SCRCA officials say.
“Precipitation is predicted to vary between 10 and 20 mm in the region, however localized precipitation amounts may vary. High amounts of rainfall in a short period of time can lead to increased runoff and flash flooding, particularly in urban areas.”
SCRCA officials say strong southwesterly wind gusts are anticipated with this system, with forecasts calling for gusts around 40 km/h over Lake St. Clair starting this evening and continuing overnight, where they are predicted to increase into the 50 km/h range early Saturday morning before subsiding mid-morning.
“Winds from a southwesterly direction have the ability to create a backwater effect, elevating water levels along the Lake St. Clair shoreline and in the Wallaceburg area,” officials say.
“Residents in these areas may experience increased wave action with a potential for erosion, and quickly rising and falling water levels due to the wind. Minor flooding is anticipated in natural floodplain areas.”
The following roads and areas may be impacted:
– Nelson Street between Wall Street and Trafalgar Street, Otter Line, and Emily Street at Elizabeth Street in Wallaceburg.
– Main Street and roads near the shoreline in Mitchell’s Bay.
– Waterworks Road north of Courtright Line in St. Clair Township.
“Northerly winds gusting in the 40 km/h range are anticipated along the Lake Huron shoreline late Saturday night, subsiding early Sunday morning,” SCRCA officials say.
“Residents in this area may experience wind-driven wave action and possible erosion, particularly the Old Lakeshore Road area of Brights Grove. River banks and shorelines are expected to be slippery, with possible minor erosion. Residents are reminded to avoid watercourses and flooded areas due to slippery banks and cold, swift moving water. Children and pets should be kept away from the water.”
The Conservation Authority continues to monitor watershed conditions and will issue advisories to municipalities and media should flood issues arise.
This flood watch will remain in effect until Sunday, June 28, 2020, unless otherwise updated.
