GRCA Flood Message #4 – Updated Combined Flood Warning/Flood Watch
Saturday April 1, 2023 at 4:30 p.m.
The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is issuing the following updated combined Flood Warning/Flood Watch message.
The strong low-pressure system that moved into the region early Friday, March 31, resulted in 30-60 mm of rain throughout the Grand River watershed. Thunderstorms overnight resulted in periods of intense rainfall. Watershed received an additional 10 to 20 mm of rain through the day on Saturday.
The GRCA anticipates local water levels will continue to rise as watercourses react to runoff. River flows will remain elevated through the coming week as runoff from this rain event drains through the river system.
Flood Warnings
West Montrose: The flood warning for West Montrose is being updated. River flows are expected to reach Flood Warning Zone 2 in West Montrose this evening and into the night. Municipal flood coordinators in the Township of Woolwich have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions. Residents are encouraged to refer to the guide on the GRCA’s website for information regarding flood warning zones.
Ayr: River flows are expected to reach Flood Warning Zone 1 in Ayr during the early hours of Sunday morning. Municipal flood coordinators in the Township of North Dumfries have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions. Residents are encouraged to refer to the guide on the GRCA’s website for information regarding flood warning zones.
New Hamburg: River flows are expected to reach Flood Warning Zone 1 in New Hamburg on Saturday afternoon into the evening. Municipal flood coordinators in the Township of Wilmot have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions. Residents are encouraged to refer to the guide on the GRCA’s website for information regarding flood warning zones.
Drayton: The flood warning for Drayton remains in effect. River flows have reached Flood Warning Zone 1 in Drayton at the time of this message and are starting to decline. Municipal flood coordinators in the Township of Mapleton have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions. Residents are encouraged to refer to the guide on the GRCA’s website for information regarding flood warning zones.
Flood Watch
A Flood Watch remains in effect for all other areas of the Grand River watershed due to the continued runoff. Municipal flood coordinators in Cambridge have been advised to monitor conditions and close the bridge on Blackbridge Road and walking trails in low-lying areas near the Speed River if necessary.
Conditions are being monitored closely and updates will be issued as necessary. 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.
GRCA reservoirs
GRCA reservoirs are at their normal level for this time of year and are being operated to manage the incoming runoff and mitigate downstream flooding.
Stay safe
Banks adjacent to local waterways are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from all water bodies.
This message will be in effect until Thursday April 6, 2023 and will be updated as needed.