A Strong Wind Warning has been issued by Environment Canada for Western Lake Erie. Weather forecasts are calling for strong sustained winds from the south or southwest overnight and into tomorrow morning. During this period sustained wind speeds above 35 km/hr can be expected, with some forecasts predicting winds peaking at around 45 km/hr with gusts near 70 km/hr. The Marine Forecast is predicting waves on Lake Erie to be around 2 m in height overnight.

Strong winds will be driving waves onto our Lake Erie shoreline in Chatham-Kent and Elgin County. There is a risk that wave action could damage shoreline protection works and cause shoreline erosion in other areas. In flood prone areas such as Erie Shore Drive in Chatham-Kent, flooding caused by waves crashing against the shoreline protection works and spraying water up onto the land may occur. Residents along the Lake Erie shoreline should pay attention to weather forecasts and prepare accordingly.

People should take extra caution and avoid the shoreline should conditions get rough. The waves can be strong and the shoreline slippery. There could also be hazardous debris within the waves and water which could be thrown onto the shoreline. Standing water can also present unseen hazards. Children and pets should be kept away from the water. Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update this advisory if necessary.

Contact: Jason Wintermute (Jason.Wintermute@ltvca.ca, 519-354-7310 x227) regarding this message.

This message will be in effect until September 5, 2018.