The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority has issued a flood watch, as there are strong southwesterly wind gusts between 40-60 km/h expected along with possible storm surge, minor flooding and risk of thunderstorms.
“The forecast is calling for southwesterly winds over Lake St. Clair and throughout the watershed tomorrow, with sustained wind speeds between 20 and 30 km/h and strong gusts throughout the day,” SCRCA officials stated.
“Beginning late Sunday morning, wind gusts are anticipated to increase to around 50 km/h, becoming 50-60 km/h early afternoon and continuing throughout the day before subsiding late Sunday evening.”
Winds from a southerly or westerly direction have the ability to create a backwater effect, slowing the flow of water out of the Sydenham River and elevating water levels in the Wallaceburg area, Conservation Authority officials say.
“Residents along the Lake St. Clair shoreline may experience increased wave action with a potential for erosion, and quickly rising and falling water levels due to the wind,” officials say.
“Minor flooding is possible in natural floodplain areas.”
This event is also forecasted to bring a risk of thunderstorms and with 5–15 mm of rain across the region between this evening and tomorrow night, however localized precipitation amounts may vary, SCRCA officials added.
“High amounts of rainfall in a short period of time can lead to increased runoff and flash flooding, particularly in urban areas,” officials say.
“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 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.
Municipal emergency response staff and road superintendents should monitor local conditions closely.
This flood watch will remain in effect until Monday, July 20, 2020, unless otherwise updated.
