NEWS RELEASE
GRAND RIVER CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
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The Grand River Conservation Authority is extending the Flood Watch for the entire watershed that was issued on March 3, 2025, due an increased risk of ice jam formation following snowmelt and runoff from recent rain events.
Heightened Risk of Ice Jams
A series of low-pressure systems brought above-freezing temperatures and 10 to 20 mm of precipitation to the watershed on March 4 and 5, 2025. Runoff and snowmelt from this event have increased water levels in local rivers and streams. A substantial amount of ice is still present in watercourses and some small ice jams have been observed upstream of Brant Conservation Area and upstream of Veterans Memorial Parkway in Brantford, as well as in the community of York.
Elevated flows may cause the ice to break up and start moving, which raises the risk of ice jam formation and associated flood potential. Municipal flood coordinators are advised to monitor areas that have historically experienced ice jam flooding and be prepared to initiate their municipal flood response plans.
Residents who typically experience flooding should be prepared as conditions can change quickly and without warning. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with their local municipal flood response programs and be prepared for flooding due to the elevated risk with this event.
GRCA Reservoirs
GRCA reservoirs are within their normal operating range for this time of year and have flood storage capacity available. The reservoirs will be used to reduce downstream flooding.
Public Safety
High flows and unstable ice conditions will increase the safety risk around rivers and streams throughout the watershed. The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution around all local waterways. As many students head into the March break, parents are reminded to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses.
Winter activities, including ice fishing, are now closed at all Grand River Conservation Areas. River ice cover is unstable due to thawing conditions and fluctuating water levels. The public is reminded to stay off of all ice-covered waterbodies, due to unsafe conditions.
River conditions and forecasts are being monitored closely, and additional flood messages will be issued as needed.
This message will remain in effect until Monday, March 10, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.
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