Grand River Flood Warning Message #5 - Termination/Watershed Conditions Statement

Date and Time Issued:  Friday, February 25, 2022 at 2:30 p.m. 

The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is terminating the combined Flood Warning/Flood Watch message previously in effect. A Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety is being issued for the entire Grand River watershed due to the continued risk of ice jam flooding and unsafe conditions in local waterways.

River flows are beginning to recede across the Grand River watershed reducing the overall flood risk. There remains an increased risk of ice jam flooding due to the volume of ice that remains in local waterways and ice jams located throughout the watershed. Conditions will be monitored closely, and updates will be issued as necessary.

Most local waterways remain ice covered, however ice on local waterbodies has been significantly weakened, resulting in extremely unsafe conditions. The public is asked to stay off all unmonitored water bodies due to unsafe conditions. Accessing frozen natural water bodies puts both the public and municipal first responders at risk. Anyone who falls through the ice could experience hypothermia and death within minutes. 

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. 

Stay safe 

Banks adjacent to local waterways are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Parents are encouraged to keep children and pets away from all water bodies. 

This message will remain in effect until April 1, 2022 and will be updated if necessary.