Flood warnings remain in place for several communities across the Grand River watershed as water levels continue to remain high following recent rainfall and melting snow.
The Grand River Conservation Authority says flood warnings are currently being maintained for several areas including West Montrose, Cambridge, Ayr, Brant County, Brantford, Six Nations of the Grand River and Haldimand County.
Officials say rainfall beginning March 7, combined with warmer temperatures, rapidly melted much of the remaining snowpack across the watershed. The resulting runoff increased water levels in rivers and streams and contributed to ice jams and localized flooding in some communities.
Although the risk of additional ice jams has now passed and river flows are beginning to recede, water levels remain elevated in many areas and flooding risks continue.
In Cambridge, flows along the lower Speed River are expected to remain elevated and may lead to flooding in low-lying areas. Meanwhile, sections of the Grand River through Brant County and Brantford have reached higher flood warning zones and are expected to remain elevated for the time being.
The conservation authority also says a flood watch remains in effect across the rest of the watershed because water levels in rivers, streams and reservoirs remain high.
Several major reservoirs — including Belwood, Conestogo, Guelph, Luther, Woolwich, Laurel and Shade’s Mills — are currently being used to help reduce downstream flooding impacts.
Officials are urging residents to use caution around local waterways as high flows and unstable ice create dangerous conditions. Families are also being reminded to keep children and pets away from rivers and to stay off ice-covered water bodies.
The current flood message is expected to remain in effect until noon on March 14 while river conditions continue to be monitored.