The Essex Region Conservation Authority has issued a Shoreline Conditions Statement for the region. ERCA says due to the forecasted thunderstorm and wind conditions beginning Thursday evening and continuing through Friday morning , the statement is in effect for Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair shoreline, including Pelee Island. Winds are mild blowing out of the southwest over Lake Erie. Forecasts predict that winds will begin to increase in speeds this evening into Friday morning. Winds are forecasted to reach sustained speeds between 40-60 km/hr, with gusts reaching up to 70km/hr. The areas of the region most affected by these winds are anticipated to be the shoreline area around Point Pelee National Park in Leamington and the west shoreline of Pelee Island in Lake Erie. ERCA says Lake levels are lower compared to previous years, but there is a concern for some damage with direct wave impact on shoreline structures and debris being thrown. There remains some risk of flooding and accelerated nearshore erosion along the impacted shoreline as a result of increased wave activity. This shoreline conditions statement will remain in effect until 2 pm on Friday, Sept 4. ERCA officials will continue to monitor conditions as they change, and issue upgraded advisories as required.
