Strong winds expected over the next several days may cause flooding along some shorelines in Essex County.
The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) has issued a flood watch for the Lake Erie shoreline including Pelee Island, Lake St. Clair from Windsor to Belle River, along with the Detroit River shoreline.
"Winds are currently moderate and out of the northeast. Forecasts indicate that winds are expected to increase in speed overnight and come out of the easterly direction, eventually shifting and coming out of the northeast," said Watershed Management Services Director James Bryant. "Wind speeds are predicted to reach speeds around 40 kilometres-per-hour in the early hours of Friday morning, with further increases through the day reaching speeds around 50 kilometres-per-hour and higher by early afternoon."
Bryant added that over open water, wind gusts could be anywhere 50 to 70 kilometres-per-hour. The winds could continue throughout Friday and Saturday before dissipating by Saturday evening.
Areas along Lake Erie may be subjected to direct wave impact. Any waves overtopping and splashing breakwall structures can cause shoreline areas to flood.
"A primary area of concern for direct wave attack and potential flooding is the shoreline area between Wheatley Harbour and Point Pelee National Park," Bryant said. "In addition to waves, there is a potential for water levels to increase in the western basin with a strong northeast wind. This may cause water levels to increase substantially up the Detroit River as well."
Those living in these areas are urged to stay away from places where flooding may take place.
The flood watch will remain in effect through Saturday while officials continue to monitor conditions.
