Highlights:

• Forecasts calling for strong southwest winds throughout the day on Sunday.
• Risk of flooding along Erie Shore Drive in Chatham-Kent on Sunday.
• Risk of shoreline damage and erosion all along the Lake Erie shoreline, including the high bluffs.

 

Message:

Strong southwest winds are forecasted for Sunday, March 13, 2022 along the Lake Erie shoreline in the LTVCA’s area of jurisdiction.  Sustained wind speeds are forecasted to peak around 45 km/hour with gusts up to 70 km/hour.  The marine forecast suggests southwest winds over the lake are to peak around 55 km/hour Sunday morning diminishing to 35 km/hour in the afternoon.  Waves in open water areas are forecasted to reach 1.5 m in height during the day.

There is a risk of flooding and shoreline damage along Erie Shore Drive in Chatham-Kent on Sunday.  The wind speeds and directions in the forecasts have caused significant flooding in the area over the last few years and water levels are currently fairly close to where they were at this time last year.  While some ice berms are still present along the shoreline, the majority have melted or been severely degraded and may no longer provide the same level of protection as during recent wind events.  Given the cold temperatures forecasted, the spray from waves impacting shoreline protection can be expected to freeze creating additional hazardous conditions.  Residents in the area should pay close attention to local conditions and be prepared.  There could also be impacts to other low-lying shoreline areas that have seen flooding over the last few years.

Due to high lake levels, there is a risk that wave action could damage shoreline protection works and cause erosion all along the Lake Erie shoreline in Chatham-Kent and Elgin County, including along the high bluff areas.

People should take extra caution and avoid the shoreline should conditions get rough.  The waves can be strong and the shoreline slippery.  There could be icy, dangerous conditions along the shoreline.  There could also be hazardous debris within the waves and water which could be thrown onto the shore.  Standing water can also present unseen hazards.  Children and animals 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 March 14, 2022.

Message Contact:  Jason Homewood ([email protected])