Strong winds in the forecast have prompted the local conservation authority to issue a flood watch for several shorelines in the area.
The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) issued the watch Saturday morning, noting that Essex County could see sustained winds up to 40 km/hr Saturday evening into Sunday morning.
"Due to the combination of wind speed, direction and current high lake levels, there is a possibility of flooding, nearshore erosion, with waves overtopping and spray. Forecasts are showing waves between 1.5 and 2.0 metres in height overnight. In the areas of direct wave attack, there is the possibility of breakwall damage," ERCA said in a release.
Leamington between Wheatley Harbour and Point Pelee National Park, the Lake Erie shoreline including Pelee Island, the Lake St. Clair shoreline and the Detroit River shoreline are most at risk for flooding.
"People should take extra caution to avoid areas where flooding is occurring as well as rivers, streams, and shoreline areas during significant rainfall and wind/lake events. The combination of slippery banks, waves, waves overtopping shoreline structures, and fast-moving water can be dangerous," said ERCA.
The flood watch is in effect until Sunday at 12 p.m.
