Highlights:

• Strong winds from the southwest are forecasted on Lake Erie, late tomorrow morning and afternoon.
• Risk of erosion, shoreline damage and flooding along the Lake Erie Shoreline, especially along Erie Shore Drive.

Message:

Current weather forecasts are calling for strong southwest winds late tomorrow morning and afternoon. Winds are forecasted to be stronger on the eastern half of Lake Erie where the Marine Forecast has issued a Strong Wind Warning. However, some forecasts are also calling for strong winds on our end of the lake, possibly exceeding 30 km/hr. Should this occur, waves between 0.5 and 1 m could be expected on Lake Erie.

There is a risk that wave action could damage shoreline protection works and cause erosion all along the Lake Erie shoreline, including the high bluff areas. Low lying areas and communities would also be at risk of flooding, especially Erie Shore Drive.

There is also a risk of thunderstorms tomorrow and Wednesday. Heavy rains associated with thunderstorms could also cause flooding in low lying shoreline areas. Due to the high lake levels, the groundwater table is high and storm water sewer systems and local watercourses are full with lake water. As a result, rainwater is not draining properly from these areas. Any water from upstream making its way downstream on these watercourses into these shoreline areas could cause additional flooding.

People should take extra caution and avoid the shoreline should the weather get rough. Also, any waterways with elevated water levels should be avoided. The waves on the lakes can be strong, and the shoreline and the banks of waterways can be slippery. There could also be hazardous debris within the waves and water which could be thrown onto the shoreline. 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 July 18, 2019.

Message Contact:  Jason Wintermute (519-354-7310 x227) ([email protected])