Highlights:
- 15 to 25 mm rain
- Strong winds
- Minor flooding and road closures anticipated
- Possible shoreline erosion
A Colorado Low making its way to Southern Ontario is predicted to bring moderate rain and strong winds. An accumulation of approximately 15 mm of rain is anticipated beginning late Saturday through Sunday before an additional 5-10 mm on Monday. Water levels may elevate into natural floodplain areas, parks and farm fields. Soils may become saturated from the rain and could contribute to ponding, increased runoff into watercourses, and possible increased erosion and seepage issues.
Winds are anticipated to be south/southeasterly Saturday evening through Sunday before becoming westerly Monday morning. Strong gusts are predicted to start early Monday afternoon, gusting between 65 and 80 km/h with sustained winds around 50 km/h, before beginning to subside late Monday overnight into Tuesday.
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. The forecasted strong winds are anticipated to quickly surge water levels in the Wallaceburg and Mitchell’s Bay areas, rapidly receding once the winds subside. Residents along the Lake Huron and Lake St. Clair shorelines may experience increased wave action and possible erosion.
The following roads in Chatham-Kent may experience flooding due to surge:
- Otter Creek Line
- Nelson Street north of McKee
- Emily Street at Elizabeth
River banks are expected to be slippery, with possible minor erosion. Residents are reminded to avoid watercourses and flooded areas due to slippery banks and cold, swift moving water. Children and pets should be kept away from the water.
Municipal emergency response staff and road superintendents should monitor local conditions closely.
The Conservation Authority continues to monitor watershed conditions and will issue advisories to municipalities and media should flood issues arise.
This message will remain in effect until Tuesday, April 14, 2020 unless otherwise updated.
