Grand River Conservation Authority Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety

The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has shared the following Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety:

The current weather system crossing the watershed is bringing above freezing temperatures and approximately 30-40 mm of mixed snow and rain, resulting in increased river flows throughout the Grand River watershed.

No significant flooding is expected with this event; however, river flows in local waterways will be higher than normal for this time of year, increasing the risk in low-lying areas typically prone to flooding. 

GRCA reservoirs will be used to reduce downstream flooding; however, river flows will remain elevated, increasing the safety risk around rivers and streams throughout the watershed.

Stay safe 

The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution around all local waterways. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses.

River conditions and forecasts are being monitored closely. This message will remain in effect until noon on Friday, January 12, 2024.  Updated flood messages will be issued if needed.

More information

• 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.
• Receive GRCA flood messages by e-mail by subscribing through the GRCA website.
• Follow GRCA flood messages on Twitter at grca_flood_msg, as well as on their Facebook page.
• More information about how the GRCA manages floods is available in the Flooding section of the website.