There is currently lakeshore flooding along Erie Shore Drive in Chatham-Kent. Residences along this stretch are being impacted and in some places the water is up onto the road.

Sustained winds over 40 km/hr from the southwest have been recorded in the area. Forecasts are calling for sustained winds of 40 to 45 km/hr later this afternoon. Winds are expected to switch to a more westerly direction, which should provide some relief, but are expected to remain over 35 km/hr into tomorrow morning. Environment Canada’s Marine Forecast is predicting wave heights to continue to build to 2 m in height this evening.
Environment Canada’s Strong Wind Warning remains in effect for western Lake Erie.

Southwesterly winds will be driving the waves onto our Lake Erie shoreline in Chatham-Kent and Elgin County. There is a risk that wave action could damage shoreline protection works and cause shoreline erosion. There could also be localized flooding due to waves crashing against the shoreline protection spraying water up onto the land. Residents in vulnerable areas along the Lake Erie shoreline should be prepared. Residents should pay close attention to the weather.

People should take extra caution and avoid the shoreline should conditions get rough. The waves can be strong and the shoreline slippery. There could also be hazardous debris within the waves and water. Standing water can also present its own unseen hazards. Children, pets and livestock should be kept away from the water.

Officials will continue to monitor the situation and update this advisory if necessary.
This message will be in effect until August 5th, 2017.

Contact: Jason Wintermute (519- 354-7310 x227) regarding this message.