Highlights:
• Strong Wind Warning in effect for western Lake Erie
• Forecasts calling for periods of strong southwest winds that could begin overnight and last into Saturday afternoon.
• Risk of shoreline damage and erosion all along the Lake Erie shoreline, including the high bluffs.
• Risk of flooding along Erie Shore Drive in Chatham-Kent
Message:
Currently, winds across the region are gentle and generally from the south. Forecasts are predicting that winds will rise and become more southwesterly overnight. While there are some differences in the various forecasts, generally forecasts suggest we could see periods of strong winds overnight through into Saturday afternoon. Peak wind speeds are forecast to be in the 35 to 40 km/hr range. Forecasts also suggest the possibility of rain and thunderstorms during this period. Wave forecasts suggest wave heights between 1 and 1.5 m.
Due to high lake levels, there is a risk that wave action could damage shoreline protection works and cause erosion all along the Lake Erie shoreline in Chatham-Kent and Elgin County, including along the high bluff areas.
There is also a risk of flooding along Erie Shore Drive in Chatham-Kent. Given current lake levels, the predicted peak winds speeds are high enough that there could be flooding along the road. Residents and workers in the area should be prepared for the possibility of flooding. There could also be impacts to other low-lying shoreline areas that have seen flooding over the last few years.
Currently, winds are not predicted to be from a direction that would cause issues for the Lake St. Clair shoreline in the LTVCA jurisdiction.
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 shore. Standing water can also present unseen hazards. Children and animals should be kept away from the water.
Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update this advisory if necessary.
This message will be in effect until June 20, 2021.
Message Contact: Jason Wintermute ([email protected])