A Special Weather Statement and Gale Warning have been issued by Environment Canada for the St. Clair watershed.

Forecasts are calling for 15-20 mm of rain beginning this evening and continuing into Saturday morning. Soils remain saturated and unfrozen from recent snowmelt and fluctuating temperatures, creating conditions susceptible to increased runoff. Water levels remain elevated from recent events and minor flooding into natural floodplain areas, parks and farmland is possible. Roads may become impacted by rising water levels.

Southerly winds over Lake St. Clair are forecasted to gust over 60 km/h beginning early Saturday, increasing in speed through the afternoon and becoming westerly with gusts over 80 km/h by Saturday evening, subsiding late Saturday. Winds from a southerly or westerly direction 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.

Winds over Southern Lake Huron are forecasted to be southwesterly through Saturday, becoming westerly Saturday evening and gusting upwards of 85 km/h, subsiding early Sunday. Residents along the Lake St. Clair and Lake Huron shorelines may experience storm surge, increased wave action and potential minor flooding and erosion.

Individuals 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, December 13, 2021, unless otherwise updated.