'Long-term' flood watch issued for Essex, as Lake Erie and St. Clair continue to rise

Record lake levels havethe Essex Region Conservation Authority issuing a "long-term"flood watch for all shoreline areas within the Essex region, including Pelee Island.

Areas of concern are the low-lying beach communities and shoreline areas along Lake St. Clair, the Detroit Riverand Lake Erie, as well as low-lying areas along the downstream reaches of major tributaries.

"Unless superseded by a Flood Warning, this watch will remain in effect until June 28, 2019 at which time conditions will be reevaluated,"ERCAsaid in a statement.

The weather authority addsLake St. Clair and Lake Erie are averaging elevation levels of about 175 metres.

"As we approach mid-June, both lakes are still on the rise."