Due to rain in the forecast, The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) has issued a flood watch for the Essex Region.
ERCA sent out a media release early Saturday afternoon. Thunderstorms are expected to hit the region early this evening bringing the possibility of up to 5 cm of rain per hour in addition to hail and winds reaching up to 100 km/hr.
"The Essex Region Conservation Authority advises that, due to the record high lake levels, a flood watch is in effect for all shoreline areas within the Essex Region, including Pelee Island," the release stated. "Areas of concern are the low lying beach communities and shoreline areas along Lake St. Clair, the Detroit River and Lake Erie, as well as low lying areas along the downstream reaches of major tributaries. Unless superseded by a Flood Warning this watch will remain in effect until June 15, 2019 at which time conditions will be reevaluated."
ERCA added that there is also the possibility of flooding and drainage problems in urban areas that are affected by intense storms.
They are reminding people to take extra caution in areas where flooding is happening and avoid banks and shorelines and as well as standing water.
