The Long Point Region Conservation Authority has issued a Flood Watch for the Lake Erie shoreline. Strong winds and high waves are expected to cause flooding in very low-lying areas along the shoreline beginning Friday morning and continuing in the afternoon.

Environment Canada is forecasting sustained strong southwesterly winds with gusts up to 75 km/h Friday morning and continuing into the afternoon. Strong winds are expected to cause wave heights to reach up to 1.73 meters in the Long Point area and up to 1.65 meters towards the eastern limits of the watershed. Forecast models are currently forecasting water levels to remain elevated from Friday morning until Friday evening. Winds are expected to ease early evening on Friday.

People are urged to use caution or stay away from Lake Erie shoreline areas experiencing strong wave action and elevated water levels. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from these areas.

Haldimand County Emergency Services will be actively monitoring conditions throughout Friday. Residents should pay close attention to changing weather conditions and watch for updated flood messages. A flood guide for lakeshore property owners and other emergency preparedness resources can be found at HaldimandCounty.ca/floods.

This Flood Watch is in effect until 9am on Saturday, March 14, 2020.