The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority issued a flood watch on Thursday, September 3, 2020, after Environment Canada issued a Strong Wind Warning for both Lake Huron and Lake St. Clair.
“Beginning this afternoon, south/southwesterly winds over Lake St. Clair are predicted to gust between 40 and 50 km/h, becoming northwesterly this evening before subsiding late this evening into early Friday morning,” SCRCA officials say.
“Winds from a southerly or westerly direction have the ability to create a backwater effect, elevating water levels in the Wallaceburg area. Residents along the Lake St. Clair shoreline may experience increased wave action with a potential for erosion and possible minor flooding in natural floodplain areas.”
Southwesterly winds over Lake Huron are forecasted to gust near 50 km/h, switching to westerly this evening and gusting upwards of 60 km/h before subsiding late this evening, officials say.
Residents in this area may experience wind-driven wave action and possible erosion, particularly the Old Lakeshore Road area of Brights Grove, officials added.
“River banks and shorelines are anticipated to be slippery, with possible minor erosion,” SCRCA official say.
“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 message will remain in effect until Saturday, September 5, 2020, unless otherwise updated.
