Strong waves in Lake Erie. (File photo courtesy of Cindy June via Facebook)Strong waves in Lake Erie. (File photo courtesy of Cindy June via Facebook)
Chatham

Flood watch in effect for Lake Erie communities

The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) is warning high wind speeds could cause flooding in areas along Lake Erie.

A flood watch was issued Monday afternoon and is retroactive to 3:30 p.m. on Monday.

In a statement, the LTVCA  said thunderstorms are also expected for the next couple of days. Heavy rains associated with the storms could also cause flooding in low lying shoreline areas.

"Due to the high lake levels, the groundwater table is high and stormwater sewer systems and local watercourses are full with lake water," the statement reads. "As a result, rainwater is not draining properly from these areas. Any water from upstream making its way downstream on these watercourses into these shoreline areas could cause additional flooding."

Residents are being urged to take caution around areas with high water levels. The flooding is posing the threat of erosion along the shoreline, with flooding a possibility along Erie Shore Drive, said the LTVCA.

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