Waves along Lake Erie. April 10, 2019. (Photo courtesy of the LTVCA).Waves along Lake Erie. April 10, 2019. (Photo courtesy of the LTVCA).
Chatham

Flood watch in place for Lake Erie shoreline

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 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 would also be a risk of flooding in other south-facing shoreline communities along Lake Erie. Forecasts predict that winds will pick up Monday night and exceed 35 km/hr during the overnight period.

"Winds are predicted to remain between 35 and 40 km/hr, with gusts up to 60 km/hr, throughout the day [Tuesday], said Jason Wintermute, manager of watershed and information services for the LTVCA. "Strong winds are predicted to persist into Wednesday as well. Winds between 35 and 40 km/hr, with gusts up to 60 km/hr are generally predicted for Wednesday morning. However, some forecasts suggest sustained winds could climb even higher Wednesday morning, potentially reaching up into the 55 km/hr to 60 km/hr range."

Wintermute added marine forecasts for Lake Erie are calling for waves of around one metre, peaking up to 1.5 metres. He said flooding could be severe should the near gale wind speeds predicted for Wednesday morning appear. Flooding could also be worse due to the extended duration of the event, he added.

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

This flood watch will be in effect until Thursday.

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