The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority issued a shoreline water safety bulletin on Tuesday, January 4, 2022.
“A low pressure system and associated cold front moving into Ontario are forecast to bring strong sustained winds to the Lower Great Lakes tomorrow,” SCRCA officials say.
“Southwesterly winds over Lake St. Clair are predicted to gust between 60 and 80 km/h throughout Wednesday before subsiding late evening. Residents along the Lake St. Clair shoreline in the Mitchell’s Bay and Walpole Island First Nation areas may experience elevated water levels due to storm surge, increased wave action and possible shoreline erosion. Water levels in the Sydenham River at Wallaceburg may also become elevated due to backflow from strong winds.”
SCRCA officials say individuals are reminded to avoid the shoreline and flooded areas due to dangerous conditions, slippery banks and cold, swift moving water.
“Children and pets should be kept away from the water,” officials say.
“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 Thursday, January 6, 2022 at 12 p.m. unless otherwise updated.
Environment Canada has also issued a special weather statement in Chatham-Kent, as strong winds are expected Wednesday.
“Hazards (include) strong winds gusting between 70 and 80 km/h… Wednesday afternoon into Wednesday evening,” forecasters say.
“Power outages may occur. High winds may toss loose objects or cause tree branches to break. Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions due to high winds.”
Forecasters added: “A cold front will sweep through southern Ontario Wednesday afternoon and evening bringing strong southwest winds.”
Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.
To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports using #ONStorm.
