Residents reminded to use caution near rivers, streams and water bodies
The Grand River watershed received 15 to 20 mm of rainfall over the past 24 hours. The watershed was already saturated from the flow event last week. The most recent rain and snowmelt from the warmer temperatures have run off the landscape into the river, increasing water levels.
At this time, river levels in the upper reaches of the Nith, Conestogo and Grand Rivers are nearing peak levels. River levels will continue to increase in downstream reaches through Friday and will remain elevated through much of the weekend. However, river levels are expected to peak lower than levels experienced last weekend. While no major flooding is expected, there may be some flooding of low lying areas. The low level bridge at St. Jacobs remains closed. The temperature forecast is cold for the next several days, which will limit additional melt of remaining snow in northern parts of the watershed, and there is little precipitation in the forecast.
Major reservoirs are being operated to manage levels and reduce downstream flooding.
The public is reminded to exercise extreme caution in and around all rivers, streams and water bodies. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are slippery and when combined with cold, fast-moving water pose a serious hazard. Both water and air temperatures are cold, and anyone going into the water could fall victim to hypothermia within minutes. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from watercourses and flooded areas.
This statement will remain in effect until Monday April 11, 2016.
- For more information on flows, weather and reservoir conditions see the River Data section of the GRCA website.
- More information on the flood warning system is available on the GRCA website.
- Receive GRCA flood messages by e-mail by subscribing through the GRCA website.
- Follow GRCA flood messages on Twitter at grca_flood_msg.
- More information about how the GRCA manages floods is available in the Flooding section of the website.
- Safety information for parents and children is available in the GRCA’s River Safety Rules