The Grand River Conservation Authority has issued a combined flood warning and watch across its watershed with mild temperatures expected on Thursday and Friday.
The GRCA said much of the snow pack is expected to melt and increase runoff into local waterways.
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“Runoff will result in flooding in low lying areas, typically prone to spring flooding,” the GRCA said in a statement on Wednesday afternoon.
A flood warning has been issued for the Nith River through New Hamburg and Ayr as flows are expected to peak on Friday afternoon and late Saturday morning, respectively.
A flood watch has been issued for the Grand River through Grand Valley, West Montrose, Brantford, Six Nations Territory, Caledonia and Cayuga.
There is a flood watch in place for the Conestogo River through Drayton and St. Jacobs, and the Speed River through Cambridge.
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The GRCA said there is the potential for ice jams in Grand Valley, New Hamburg, West Montrose, Brantford, Six Nations Territory, Cayuga and Port Maitland.
Major reservoirs at Belwood, Conestogo, Guelph, Luther, Woolwich, Laurel and Shade’s Mills are being used to store runoff and reduce flooding.
“The public is reminded to exercise extreme caution around all water bodies,” the GRCA said. “Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses and off frozen water bodies.”
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Ice fishing has now been closed at all GRCA conservation areas.
More information can be found on the GRCA’s website.
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