The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) has issued a flood watch for the Erie Shore Drive area in Chatham-Kent due to strong winds in the forecast Saturday afternoon.
The LTVCA said wind speeds are expected to reach up to 45 km/hour with gusts up to 70 km/hour.
"Marine forecasts suggest that wind speeds around 55 km/hour and waves up to 2 metres could be seen on the open lake," the LTVCA said.
There is a risk of flooding along Erie Shore Drive as well as damage and erosion all along the shoreline.
"The flooding would be most likely to happen later in the afternoon or evening, but minor flooding could be seen as early as noon," the LTVCA said. "The peak wind speeds and directions in the forecasts have caused significant flooding in the area over the last few years and water levels are currently fairly close to where they were at this time last year."
The LTVCA is warning people to take extra caution and avoid the shoreline should conditions get rough. The waves can be strong and the shoreline slippery and hazardous debris could be within the waves and thrown to shore.
The watch will be in effect until 6 a.m. on March 20, officials will continue to monitor the situation and update if needed.
