A severe weather system tracking from the Upper Midwest is anticipated to bring strong winds, precipitation and thunderstorms tonight and into tomorrow morning. Precipitation is predicted to vary between 10 and 20 mm in the region, however localized precipitation amounts may vary. High amounts of rainfall in a short period of time can lead to increased runoff and flash flooding, particularly in urban areas.

Strong southwesterly wind gusts are anticipated with this system, with forecasts calling for gusts around 40 km/h over Lake St. Clair starting this evening and continuing overnight, where they are predicted to increase into the 50 km/h range early Saturday morning before subsiding mid-morning.

Winds from a southwesterly direction have the ability to create a backwater effect, elevating water levels along the Lake St. Clair shoreline and in the Wallaceburg area. Residents in these areas may experience increased wave action with a potential for erosion, and quickly rising and falling water levels due to the wind. Minor flooding is anticipated in natural floodplain areas.

Northerly winds gusting in the 40 km/h range are anticipated along the Lake Huron shoreline late Saturday night, subsiding early Sunday morning. Residents in this area may experience wind-driven wave action and possible erosion, particularly the Old Lakeshore Road area of Brights Grove.

River banks and shorelines 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.

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 Sunday, June 28, 2020, unless otherwise updated.