Increased risk of ice jam along Grand River, flooding could happen 'without warning': Conservation authority
A flood watch for the entire Grand River watershed has been extended through the weekend because there's an increased risk of ice jams, which could cause flooding.
The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) extended the flood watch issued earlier this week on Thursday. It is now set to expire on Monday.
The authority says up to 20 mm of rain fell in parts of the watershed on Tuesday and Wednesday. Warm temperatures also led to melting snow. Both of these have caused increased water levels in local rivers and streams.
"A substantial amount of ice is still present in watercourses and some small ice jams have been observed upstream of Brant Conservation Area and upstream of Veterans Memorial Parkway in Brantford, as well as in the community of York," the GRCA said on Thursday.
"Elevated flows may cause the ice to break up and start moving, which raises the risk of ice jam formation and associated flood potential."
Be prepared for flooding: GRCA
Each municipality has flood co-ordinators who monitor their areas and will send out alerts to residents if it appears an ice jam or flooding is possible.
But the GRCA also said people should prepare now for possible flooding.
"Residents who typically experience flooding should be prepared as conditions can change quickly and without warning," the GRCA said.
People are also being reminded to stay away from bodies of water because banks and shores may be slippery due to mud or ice.
"As many students head into the March break, parents are reminded to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses.
"Winter activities, including ice fishing, are now closed at all Grand River Conservation Areas. River ice cover is unstable due to thawing conditions and fluctuating water levels. The public is reminded to stay off of all ice-covered waterbodies, due to unsafe conditions."
Warmup expected next week
Environment Canada issued a winter weather travel advisory for Waterloo region, Guelph and southern Wellington County on Thursday. Up to five centimetres of snow are possible, but the wind could cause blowing snow, making driving difficult at times.
The forecast shows temperatures will remain just below freezing until Sunday and snow is likely. On Sunday, the temperature rises to just above freezing, then the early part of next week will see it rise further to nearly 10 C.
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