The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) has issued a flood watch for Chatham-Kent, because of strong winds in the forecast.
The flood watch comes after Environment Canada issued a strong wind warning for western Lake Erie.
Weather forecasts are calling for sustained winds greater than 35 km/h from the south or southwest beginning Monday night and lasting until late Tuesday. The weather agency says sustained winds could peak between 40-55 km/h, most likely Tuesday evening. Wind gusts could even exceed 60 km/h.
Environment Canada predicts that waves could build to 2-3m by Tuesday morning. As a result of the strong winds, the LTVCA is anticipating possible flooding in Chatham-Kent.
The conservation authority reports that the potential flooding could cause shoreline erosion along the Lake Erie shoreline in Chatham-Kent and Elgin County.
The LTVCA says the predicted wind speeds and wave heights are similar to those that caused flooding earlier this year along Erie Shore Dr. in Chatham-Kent.
Officials are advising residents to take extra caution and avoid the shoreline. The waves can be strong and the shoreline can become quite slippery. There may also be hazardous debris within the waves and water. 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 flood watch will be in effect until Wednesday.
