The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) has issued a flood watch for residents living along the Lake Erie shoreline in Chatham-Kent.
LTVCA announced the flood watch due to strong winds in the forecast for Monday and Tuesday.
According to Environment Canada, winds over 35 km/hr are expected, peaking somewhere between 40 and 65 km/hr Monday afternoon. Wind gusts are predicted to exceed 75 km/hr.
Due to these strong winds, waves may reach as high as 2 to 3 m Monday morning, building to 3 to 4 m in the afternoon. According to the conservation authority, these high waves could cause shoreline erosion. The speeds of the winds and heights of the waves are similar to those that caused flooding earlier this year along Erie Shore Drive in Chatham-Kent.
LTVCA is urging residents along the Lake Erie shoreline to be prepared for possible flooding.
People should take extra caution and avoid the shoreline. The waves can be strong and the shoreline can be extra slippery. There could also be hazardous debris within the waves and water. Children, pets and livestock 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 Wednesday.
