A flood warning has been issued for Erie Shore Drive but the flood watch remains in effect for the rest of the Lake Erie shoreline.
The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) said there is currently flooding along Erie Shore Drive in Chatham-Kent with water on the road. All non-essential traffic should avoid the area to ensure emergency services can access the area if required.
The LTVCA previously said strong southerly wind predicted for Wednesday into Thursday morning puts the shore at risk of damage, erosion, and flooding.
Flooding has occurred along Erie Shore Drive, and water has spilled on to many properties and roadways. Forecasts predict that conditions will worsen and flooding will continue into Thursday morning before subsiding.
"Most forecasts are calling for strong sustained winds around 40 km/hr for most of the day on Wednesday and into the overnight," said LTVCA Watershed and Information Services Manager Jason Wintermute. "Winds are predicted to peak Wednesday evening or early overnight, with the possibility of sustained wind speeds in the 50 km/hr range and gusts over 75 km/hr."
Wintermute also said wave forecasts for Lake Erie are expected to reach 1.5 to two metres in height and with the current Lake Erie water levels and the predicted wind speeds, flooding is likely to occur along Erie Shore Drive in Chatham-Kent. The wave action could also damage shoreline protection and cause erosion all along the Lake Erie shoreline in Chatham-Kent, including along the high bluff areas.
The LTVCA is asking people to take extra caution and avoid the shoreline should conditions get rough.
The flood warning and flood watch will be in effect until December 25.
