NEWS RELEASE
GRAND RIVER CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
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The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is issuing the following flood message.
The weather system crossing the watershed since the morning of Dec. 28 has brought above freezing temperatures causing snowmelt, and approximately 25 to 35 mm of rain across the watershed.
The GRCA expects local water levels to continue to rise this week as watercourses react to runoff. While significant rainfall has ended, river flows will remain elevated through the coming week as runoff from this rain and snow melt event drains through the river system.
A Flood Warning is being issued for West Montrose. River flows are expected to reach Flood Warning Zone 1 in West Montrose on Monday evening and overnight. Municipal Flood Coordinators in the Township of Woolwich have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions. Residents are encouraged to refer to the guide on the GRCA’s website for information regarding flood warning zones. The Flood Warning for West Montrose will remain in effect until noon on Thursday.
The Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety issued on Dec. 27 remains in effect for all areas of the Grand River watershed due to the continued runoff.
River conditions and forecasts are being monitored closely and updates to this message will be issued if necessary.
GRCA reservoirs
GRCA reservoirs are at their normal level for this time of year and are being operated to manage downstream flooding.
Stay safe
Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with local municipal flood response programs and be prepared for flooding due to the elevated risk at this time.
Banks adjacent to local waterways are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Any ice-covered bodies of water are considered unsafe. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from all water bodies.
More information
- 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 X at grca_flood_msg.
- More information about how the GRCA’s role in managing floods is available in the Flooding section of the website.
- Copies of the GRCA’s River Safety Rules booklet is available by contacting the GRCA Administration Centre.
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