The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority (SCRCA) issued a flood watch on Thursday, March 25, 2021.
“A low pressure system tracking into Southern Ontario is expected to bring 25-30 mm of rain, strong winds and increased wave action,” SCRCA officials say.
“Rain across the region is expected to begin this evening, with the majority of the rain falling overnight before ending Friday morning. Rainfall amounts may vary depending on location; high amounts of rainfall in a short period of time can lead to increased runoff and flash flooding, particularly in urban areas, and residents may experience ponding due to high intensity rainfall.”
SCRCA officials added: “Winds in the area of Wallaceburg are predicted to be northwesterly, gusting upwards of 70 km/h around noon Friday. Winds from a westerly direction have the potential to cause a backwater effect in the Wallaceburg area, further slowing the movement of water out of the river and elevating water levels. Water levels in this area are currently low and severe flooding is not anticipated during this event.”
A Gale Wind Warning is in effect for Southern Lake Huron, SCRCA officials say.
“Beginning in the early hours of Friday, northerly winds gusting around 40 km/h are anticipated to slowly increase, becoming north/northwesterly and gusting around 70 km/h by 7 a.m.,” SCRCA officials say.
“By late morning, northwesterly winds will gust upwards of 85 km/h before diminishing mid-afternoon. Waves are predicted to build three to four metres in height by Friday morning, subsiding with the wind in the afternoon.”
Residents along the Lake Huron shoreline can anticipate water levels to rise due to storm surge, with the potential for minor flooding in natural floodplain areas, SCRCA officials say.
“Shoreline erosion is possible with the increased wave action, particularly in the Old Lakeshore Road area of Brights Grove,” SCRCA officials say.
“Residents are reminded to avoid shorelines, watercourses and flooded areas due to dangerous conditions, 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, officials say, adding that municipal emergency response staff and road superintendents should monitor local conditions closely.
This message will remain in effect until Saturday, March 27, 2021, unless otherwise updated.
Environment Canada has also issued a special weather statement across the region. Details, here.
