The Town of Tecumseh is offering free sandbags and sand to those living along Lake St. Clair and Pike Creek as it prepares for another season of flooding.
"We have been warned that lake levels are 17 inches higher than they were last year at this time," said Mayor Gary McNamara after meeting with officials from the Essex Region Conservation Authority. "That's before the winter thaw and release from Lake Superior this spring."
He said preparations are underway on municipal properties along the shoreline and encouraged residents to do the same.
Last May, the town surveyed shorelines to find areas vulnerable to flooding. To mitigate the risk, Public Works crews used sandbags to protect critical infrastructure like pump stations.
A record rainfall in Tecumseh causes flooding in the town on September 29, 2016. (Photo courtesy OPP)
Last year, it also offered at-risk property owners 100 free sandbags. Those residents will again be provided sandbags, and another 200 will be available to those who did not take advantage of the town's offer.
While sandbags may be effective at mitigating flooding, they are just a temporary measure and do not offer protection from high winds and waves.
A release from the town says the potential for, and the extent of flooding is entirely dependent on lake levels, wind direction and duration, and rainfall.
"A strong north/northeast wind over several hours could push water up and over the shoreline," it read.
"Our Flood Response Team has been meeting regularly over the winter to identify ways to address potential effects of high lake levels," said CEO Marg Misek-Evans. "This work also includes public education on when and how to prepare for an evacuation."
There is a link on the town's webpage to register for Emergency Alert notifications. Officials encourage residents to enrol in the event of an evacuation. Those who need assistance during an evacuation, or have a family member that needs help, should call 519-735-2184 ext. 101 or 109 to sign up.
