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

Lake Erie could cause flooding in CK

A flood watch has been issued for the Lake Erie shoreline and Erie Shore Drive in Chatham-Kent.

The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) said on Tuesday that there's a risk of shoreline damage and erosion along the Lake Erie shoreline, including the high bluffs because of strong wind and high lake levels that will likely flood Erie Shore Drive. There could also be a risk of flooding in other south-facing shoreline communities along Lake Erie.

"Forecasts predict that winds will pick up [Tuesday] evening and could reach 35 km/h by morning," said the LTVCA in a statement Tuesday afternoon. "Some forecasts are suggesting that winds could exceed 45 km/h during the day [Wednesday]."

Jason Wintermute, manager of watershed and information services for the LTVCA, added marine forecasts for Lake Erie are calling for waves of around one metre, peaking up to two metres on Wednesday. Wintermute said winds are not currently expected cause issues for the Lake St. Clair shoreline in the LTVCA jurisdiction.

The conservation authority added people should take extra caution and avoid the shoreline should conditions become rough, because the waves can be strong and the shoreline can become slippery.

This flood watch will be in effect until Friday.

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