Weather forecasts are calling for strong southwesterly winds on Lake Erie late this afternoon and this evening. Environment Canada currently has a Strong Wind Warning in effect for western Lake Erie. Forecasts are calling for sustained winds of 40 to 45 km/hr late this afternoon, with gusts predicted between 65 and 80 km/hr depending on thunderstorm activity. Environment Canada’s Marine Forecasts are predicting wave heights in western Lake Erie to reach 2 m in height.

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. The predicted wind speeds and wave heights are similar to, or slightly greater than, those that caused flooding and shoreline damage earlier this year along Erie Shore Drive in Chatham-Kent. 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.