A flood watch issued for parts of Chatham-Kent mid-week has been extended and expanded.
The Lower Thames Valley Conversation Authority (LTVCA) said the new flood watch is for Lake Erie Shoreline Shoreline, including Erie Shore Drive and the Thames River and local watercourses throughout the watershed and the City of Chatham. LTVCA said there's a risk of shoreline erosion and damage to shoreline protection along the north shore of Lake Erie into Saturday morning as well as early Sunday morning because of strong wind and waves.
Rain in the forecast could also aggravate flooding in low-lying shoreline communities such as Shrewsbury near the outlet of watercourses and municipal drains.
This part of the flood watch is in effect until Monday.
The conservation authority said weekend rain could also result in localized flooding along municipal drains and watercourses. The Indian-McGregor Creek Diversion Channel will likely be utilized in diverting floodwaters around the City of Chatham and the Thames River will rise and flood the adjacent floodplains as flows route through the river. Basement flooding of businesses along King Street in downtown Chatham is possible next week. Flooding of Siskind Court, Pegley Court, Simcoe Lane, Thames Street, Salter Street, Thomas Street, and Thames Grove Conservation Area in the City of Chatham is possible next week. Operation of the Sixth Street Dam and Pump Station in the City of Chatham is also possible next week.
This section of the flood watch is in place until Tuesday.
The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority also issued a flood warning for Wallaceburg on Sunday morning and The McKeough Dam remains on standby.
Westerly winds anticipated on Sunday could create a backwater effect, further elevating water levels in Wallaceburg.
Officials said the following roads may be impacted due to high water levels:
• Stanley Line east of Kimball Road
• Pretty Road north of McCallum Line
This flood warning is in effect until Monday.
Residents are reminded to avoid shoreline if conditions get rough and keep children and pets away from the water.