The Grand River Conservation Authority has issued a Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety as mild temperatures and steady rainfall continue to impact water levels across the region.
Runoff from earlier wet weather has led to elevated river flows throughout the watershed, and with another 5 to 15 millimetres of rain forecast for Friday, those levels may remain high into next week.
Officials warn that river flows are running above normal for this time of year, increasing the risk of localized flooding in low-lying areas that are typically prone to high water.
In addition to rising water levels, the GRCA says there remains a risk of ice jams forming along portions of the river system.
While ice conditions are not as severe as in 2018 and 2019, much of the watershed remains ice covered.
As ice begins to shift and break up, jams can form in slower moving sections of the river, potentially causing sudden and localized flooding. The risk is heightened near the mouth of the Grand River, where Lake Erie is mostly ice covered.
The conservation authority is also urging residents to stay off frozen water bodies.
Ice conditions on rivers, reservoirs and ponds are considered unsafe due to fluctuating water levels and runoff, which can weaken ice sheets and lift them away from shorelines.
Ice fishing has been closed at Belwood Lake, Guelph Lake, Shade’s Mills and Pinehurst Lake conservation areas until further notice, with conditions being monitored for possible reopening.
Officials stress that higher flows will continue to weaken any remaining ice cover and that banks along rivers and creeks are extremely slippery.
Parents and caregivers are reminded to keep children and pets away from waterways, as cold, fast-moving water poses a serious hazard.
The Watershed Conditions Statement remains in effect until noon on Thursday, March 5.
Residents can find updated river data, flood information and safety resources on the GRCA website.