A low pressure system moving through Ontario is expected to bring high winds and increased wave action to the region today.
Lake St. Clair & Wallaceburg Area:
Winds from the west over Lake St. Clair are forecast to quickly rise early this afternoon, gusting near 60 km/h and increasing through the afternoon, turning to the northwest with gusts becoming near 70 km/h early this evening before slowly subsiding overnight into Monday morning. Waves are forecast to be near one metre during this event.
Residents on the Lake St. Clair Shoreline may experience increased wave action and spray, along with possible minor flooding in natural floodplain areas. Erosion is possible with the increase in winds and waves. Winds from a westerly direction also have the potential to cause a backwater effect in the Wallaceburg area, further slowing the movement of water out of the river and contributing to elevated water levels.
Lake Huron:
A Gale Wind Warning is in effect for Southern Lake Huron. Winds are forecast to be westerly early this afternoon, gusting near 50 km/h and becoming west-northwest later this afternoon, increasing to gusts of 55-65 km/h. Winds will turn northwesterly late tonight, with gusts slowly subsiding overnight into Monday morning. Environment Canada forecasts waves to build to 2 metres this afternoon and 3-4 metres early this evening before subsiding to 2 metres overnight, diminishing further into Monday morning.
Residents along the Lake Huron shoreline can anticipate water levels to rise due to storm surge, with the potential for minor flooding in natural floodplain areas. Shoreline erosion is possible with the increased wave action, particularly in the Old Lakeshore Road area of Brights Grove.
Sydenham River:
High amounts of rainfall last Thursday elevated water levels on the Sydenham River, resulting in minor flooding into natural floodplain areas, farmland and parks. Water levels are falling, however some reaches are still experiencing water levels in floodplains.
The following roads may be impacted by water levels and should be avoided: Stanley Line between Kimball Road and Waubuno Road Waterworks Road north of Courtright Line
Residents are reminded to avoid shorelines, watercourses and flooded areas due to dangerous conditions, slippery banks and cold, swift moving water. Children and pets should be kept away from the water.
The Conservation Authority continues to monitor watershed conditions and will issue advisories to municipalities and media should flood issues arise.
Municipal emergency response staff and road superintendents should monitor local conditions closely.
This message will remain in effect until Monday, March 29, 2021, unless otherwise updated.
