Flood watch and wind warning issued for Lake St. Clair

A flood watch has been issued by the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority, as a strong wind warning is in effect for Lake St. Clair.

LTVCA officials say there is also a special weather statement in effect for the region. Details, here.

“Overnight tonight, winds are predicted to switch to the north and rise,” LTVCA officials say.

“Monday afternoon, forecasts suggest sustained wind speeds from the northwest could be in the 40 to 45 km/hr range, although some forecasts suggest winds could reach around 55 km/hr. Wind gusts in the 60 to 70 km/hr range could come with the strong winds. These strong winds are predicted to persist into Tuesday morning and possibly right through the afternoon.”

LTVCA officials added: “Lake setup from the northwest winds are predicted to raise water levels near the mouth of the Thames River around 20 cm. Waves of around 1 m in height are predicted on the lake. Along with the winds and waves, forecasts are calling for mixed precipitation with the equivalent of 15 to 25 mm of water. Over half of that is predicted to fall as 10 to 15 cm of snow, Monday evening through Tuesday.”

LTVCA officials say the strong winds and waves out of the northwest could cause some flooding, erosion, and shoreline damage on Lake St. Clair around the community of Lighthouse Cove.

“The risk would last from Monday afternoon into Tuesday morning and possibly last through Tuesday afternoon,” LTVCA officials say.

“Flooding from waves and wave spray along the shoreline is the type of flooding that could be expected. Although water levels in and around the community are predicted to rise by around 20 cm, flooding from the canals is not expected.”

Winds are not predicted to be from a direction that would have impacts on the Lake Erie shoreline, LTVCA officials say.

“People should take extra caution and avoid the shoreline should conditions get rough. The waves 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,” LTVCA officials say.

Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update this advisory if necessary.

This message will be in effect until November 2, 2020.

The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority have not issued any advisories in relation to this weather system.

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