CAMBRIDGE – A weather system crossing the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) watershed was expected to bring above freezing temperatures and approximately 30 to 40 millimetres of mixed snow and rain on Jan. 9, resulting in increased river flows throughout the Grand River watershed.
A Jan. 8 statement from the authority indicated no significant flooding was expected; however, river flows in local waterways were expected to be higher than normal for this time of year, increasing the risk in low-lying areas typically prone to flooding.
The GRCA stated reservoirs would be used to reduce downstream flooding; however, river flows were expected to remain elevated, increasing the safety risk around rivers and streams throughout the watershed.
“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,” the authority advised.
River conditions and forecasts were being monitored closely and the advisory was set remain in effect until noon on Jan. 12.
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.
More information about how the GRCA manages floods is available in the “flooding” section of the website.
