Grand River Water Safety Statement January 8 2024

Date and Time Issued: January 8, 2024 at 4:10 p.m.

Issued By: Jordan Atherton, Water Resources Engineer,

Grand River Conservation Authority

To: All Municipal Flood Coordinators, Adjacent CAs, MNR Districts, Police Services
 

Message: Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety 

The current weather system crossing the watershed is bringing above freezing temperatures and approximately 30-40 mm of mixed snow and rain on Tuesday, January 9, resulting in increased river flows throughout the Grand River watershed.

No significant flooding is expected with this event; however, river flows in local waterways will be higher than normal for this time of year, increasing the risk in low-lying areas typically prone to flooding. 

GRCA reservoirs will be used to reduce downstream flooding; however, river flows will remain elevated, increasing the safety risk around rivers and streams throughout the watershed.

The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution around all local waterways. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses.

River conditions and forecasts are being monitored closely. This message will remain in effect until noon on Friday, January 12, 2024.  Updated flood messages will be issued if needed.

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

• For current river flow refer to the “Watershed Conditions/River Data” section.
• For a “River Safety Rules” brochure, refer to the “Learn & Get Involved /River Safety” section.