GRCA Flood Message #2 - Flood Watch
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Date and Time Issued: |
Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. |
The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is issuing a Flood Watch message for Grand Valley, Waldemar, Drayton, the Village of Conestogo, New Hamburg, and Ayr.
Weather forecast
A significant rainfall event is expected across the watershed starting Wednesday afternoon until early Thursday morning. Temperatures in the watershed will be near zero Wednesday morning, bringing the possibility of freezing rain. This will transition to rain as temperatures rise to the mid-teens by Thursday morning. Rainfall estimates vary between 40 to 75 mm of total precipitation across the watershed.
Flood Watch for Grand Valley, Waldemar, Drayton, Village of Conestogo, New Hamburg, and Ayr
Water levels across the watershed remain elevated from the rainfall event this past weekend. Higher flows in local waterways combined with runoff from this event will increase the risk of flooding in low-lying areas typically prone to flooding. Municipal flood coordinators in Grand Valley, Waldemar, Drayton, the Village of Conestogo, New Hamburg, and Ayr should be aware of these conditions and take appropriate precautions. Peak river flows in these communities are expected between Thursday morning and Friday afternoon. Residents are encouraged to refer to the guides and resources available on the GRCA’s website for more information on how to prepare.
This message will remain in effect until 12 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025.
The Flood Warning Zone 1 issued for West Montrose on Monday, March 31 remains in effect.
The Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety issued on Friday, March 28, remains in effect for all areas of the Grand River watershed due to the continued runoff.
River conditions and forecasts are being monitored closely and updates to this message will be issued if necessary.
GRCA Reservoirs
GRCA reservoirs are at normal levels for this time of year and are being operated to reduce the impact of downstream flooding.
Stay safe
Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with local municipal flood response programs and be prepared for flooding due to the elevated risk at this time.
Banks adjacent to local waterways are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Any ice-covered bodies of water are considered unsafe. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from all water bodies.