Grand River Watershed Conditions Statement 14 October 2021

Watershed Conditions Statement Water Safety

Date Issued: Thursday, October 14, 2021

Message: Caution urged around local waterways due to rainfall in the forecast

Remnants of Hurricane/Tropical Storm Pamela from the Pacific are expected to influence weather systems over the next few days, bringing widespread rainfall with the potential for embedded thunderstorms to southern Ontario.

The system will reach the Great Lakes region on Friday. Widespread precipitation amounts of 20 to 30 mm are expected with the possibility of locally heavier amounts of 30 to 50 mm or more. As the track, strength and speed of passage of this system is uncertain at this time, the rainfall forecast could be exceeded in isolated locations. A close watch on evolving weather conditions is recommended.

Due to recent rainfall in the GRCA watershed, river systems will be moderately responsive to additional rainfall. Rainfall and thunderstorms in the forecast could result in localised high-water conditions through the river system.

Sustained winds from the west-south-west will accompany this system and may induce storm surge and wave conditions on Lake Erie late Friday into Saturday.

This statement is in effect until Saturday October 16th, and the GRCA will continue to monitor this system and provide updated statements or warnings as warranted.

As always, the public is reminded to exercise caution around all local waterways, especially as flows and levels are elevated. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Parents are reminded to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses.

For further information, refer to GRCA’s website at www.grandriver.ca.

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