A windy weekend forecast has led the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) to issue a watershed conditions statement.
The statement is for Friday night and Saturday morning. Environment Canada's forecast has called for sustained southwest winds of 20 to 30 kilometres per hour, with gusts of 50 kilometres per hour possible. Winds are expected to peak late Friday night.
While a flood watch is not expected to be implemented, ERCA water resource manager James Bryant said weather conditions might cause a few issues. The most significant impact is likely to be along the Lake Erie shoreline at Leamington, the western shore of Point Pelee, and the west shore of Pelee Island.
"The combination of elevated lake levels and the duration of the forecasted winds results in an increased risk of flooding, nearshore erosion, damaging waves, splashing and spray along the Lake Erie shoreline," said Bryant. "People should take extra caution to avoid areas where flooding is occurring as well as rivers, streams, and shoreline areas during significant rainfall and wind-lake events."
The statement is due to expire at noon Saturday, though ERCA will continue to monitor conditions.
