Although snow is in the forecast for the region, windy conditions are also anticipated and that has prompted a flood watch along the Lake Erie shoreline and a warning for Erie Shore Drive.
The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) issued a watch Thursday afternoon as a gale warning and freezing spray warning are in effect for western Lake Erie.
Conservation officials said forecasts show that winds will switch to the southeast Thursday afternoon and then back to the southwest overnight. Wind gusts are expected to get stronger overnight and may peak Friday afternoon with gusts in the range of 50 to 60 kilometres per hour, however, gusts could go up to 80 km/ hr.
The LTVCA said based on Marine Forecast predictions, there is a possibility of two to three metre waves on Lake Erie further offshore.
"Although ice has started to form on the Lake Erie shoreline in the central basin, the lake is still largely open and it is doubtful that the ice could stand up to the waves predicted for this event," said Jason Wintermute of the LTVCA.
Conservation officials said with predicted wind speeds "significant flooding is likely to occur" along Erie Shore Drive.
"Many properties will have standing water and water should be expected to be flowing over the road in several locations," said Wintermute. "Residents and workers in the area should be prepared."
Freezing temperatures also pose a risk for slippery conditions in the area.
The flood watch will remain in effect through February 7.
The LTVCA said issues for the Lake St. Clair shoreline within its jurisdiction are not expected, based on wind directions and ice cover.
On Wednesday, the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority issued a flood watch because of an ice jam on the St. Clair River at Port Lambton.
