The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) issued an updated flood message as warmer temperatures and mixed precipitation are in the forecast heading into the weekend.
On Thursday, the GRCA announced that both the Nith River and the lower Grand River were put under a flood watch.
It’s because of runoff from snowmelt and rain, which has led to higher flows in waterways and elevated the risk of flooding in low-lying areas that are typically prone to flooding.
“Additionally, as ice breaks up and moves through the river, there is a risk of ice jam formation, which may rapidly increase water levels and lead to local flooding,” said the GRCA. “Municipal flood coordinators in New Hamburg and Ayr should monitor conditions and take necessary actions.”
A flood watch is also in effect for Brantford, Brant County, Six Nations and Haldimand County.
Friday is expected to be above-seasonal with 10 to 15 mm of rain set to fall. Then on the weekend, temperatures will cool back down, and a mix of snow and ice pellets is anticipated.
The GRCA said snowpack throughout the entire watershed is at or above normal for this time of year.
As a result, the rest of the Grand River watershed is under a watershed conditions statement and the GRCA said the public should stay away from waterways because of the ice flows and unstable ice conditions.