A message from the GRCA: Flood Outlook - High risk of spring flooding, ice conditions remain unsafe

Watershed Conditions Statement: Flood Outlook - High risk of spring flooding, ice conditions remain unsafe

Monday, February 22, 2021

The overall flood risk throughout the Grand River watershed this spring is considered high due to an above average snowpack, much of which has remained in place since mid-December, as well as the presence of ice in local waterways.

Despite the moderate start to winter through January, temperatures fell below the long-term average in February with much of the watershed seeing above average precipitation. These conditions have resulted in a snowpack with higher than average water content and intact, but unsafe, ice conditions on many local water bodies.

While ice conditions this year are less significant than they were in in 2018 and 2019, the potential for ice jam related flooding still exists and further increases the risk of flooding in areas prone to ice jams.

Residents who typically experience spring flooding should ensure they are familiar with their local municipal flood response programs and are prepared for flooding due to the elevated risk this year.

Environment Canada is predicting near normal temperatures for the watershed over the next three months and near normal precipitation which may contribute to the increased risk of flooding this spring; this risk will further increase if heavy rainfall accompanies a rapid snowmelt event. 

GRCA reservoirs

GRCA reservoirs are at their normal operating level for this time of year and conditions are being monitored closely. The GRCA’s major dams are being operated to reduce frazil ice generation where possible in an effort to help decrease the potential for ice jam formation downstream of these water bodies. Minor ice jams have formed in the Grand River upstream of Highway 86 near West Montrose, as well as downstream of Victoria Street and through the Freeport area of Kitchener. These ice jams are relatively small at this time and will be monitored as conditions change heading into the spring. 

Lake Erie

Lake Erie remains approximately 0.6m above the long-term average but below record levels experienced in 2020. Lake Erie is mostly ice covered, increasing the risk of ice jam related flooding at the mouth of the Grand River. A very high risk for continued flooding and erosion remains along the Lake Erie shoreline due to the high lake level. 

Unsafe ice conditions

Colder temperatures have resulted in some ice formation, however most natural water bodies throughout the Grand River watershed are not monitored for the purpose of winter recreation. The public is asked to stay off all unmonitored water bodies due to unsafe conditions. 

Ice conditions can change quickly and are susceptible to daily changes in underwater currents, temperature, wind, and precipitation. Accessing frozen natural water bodies puts both the public and municipal first responders at risk. Anyone who falls through the ice could experience hypothermia and death within minutes. 

Stay safe

There has been a significant increase in the number of people accessing natural areas and water bodies this winter. Banks adjacent to local waterways are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Parents are encouraged to remind their children of the risks associated with these hazards and keep pets away from all water bodies.

This message replaces the previous Watershed Conditions Statement issued on January 12 and will remain in effect until Thursday, April 1, 2021 and will be updated if necessary.  

More information from the GRCA:

• Receive GRCA flood messages by e-mail by subscribing through the GRCA website.
• For more information on flows, weather and reservoir conditions see the River Data section of the GRCA website.
• Safety information for parents and children is available in the GRCA’s River Safety Rules booklet.
• More information on the flood warning system is available on 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.