For the second time this week, the Lake Erie Shoreline and Erie Shore Drive in Chatham-Kent is under a flood warning.
The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) issued the warning early Saturday afternoon due to extremely strong winds in the forecast.
"The strong wind warning issued by Environment Canada’s Marine Forecast has been upgraded to a Gale Warning," the LTVCA said in a release. "Strong winds from the south are forecasted to begin this evening, peaking Sunday morning and then dropping Sunday evening."
Winds are predicted to reach up to 45 km/hr Saturday evening and into overnight with forecasts showing that by Sunday morning, wind speeds may increase to 60 km/hr. According to the LTVCA, wave heights on Lake Erie could hit three to four metres by Sunday morning.
In addition to heavy winds, significant rainfall is expected Saturday afternoon into Sunday morning. Forecasts show that the area could see up to 40 mm.
"Throughout the watershed, the large amount of rain predicted could lead to ponding and localized flooding in areas with poor drainage," said the LTVCA. "Local ditches, creeks and streams will rise overnight and throughout the day tomorrow. The higher rainfall amounts could cause some watercourses to reach bank full conditions, or cause some to spill their banks and flood low lying adjacent areas."
The LTVCA adds that strong winds will be driving waves onto the Lake Erie shoreline in Chatham-Kent and Elgin County, Saturday evening and throughout the day on Sunday. There is a risk that wave action could damage shoreline protection works and cause erosion.
Residents and emergency responders are asked to be prepared. The LTVCA is also reminding people to take extra caution and avoid any shoreline and any watercourses with elevated water levels.
By Sunday morning several homeowners along Erie Shore Drive had water on their property and on the roadway.
The warning is currently in effect until Monday.
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