NEWS RELEASE
GRAND RIVER CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
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A weather system is forecasted to move through the Grand River Watershed starting Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024 through to Monday, Dec. 30, 2024. This weather system will being warm temperatures of up to 10 degrees Celsius resulting in snow melt conditions, as well as 25 to 35 mm of precipitation in the form of rain is expected by the time the system moves out of the area on Monday.
There is a snowpack of variable depth across the watershed with more snow present in the north. Water levels and flows are slightly elevated due to recent rain and snowmelt runoff.
No significant flooding is expected with this event; however, higher flows in local waterways will increase 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. Ice cover will be severely eroded due to rain and thaw, and riverbanks will be icy and wet. As it is the winter holiday break, parents are reminded 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 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 2, 2025. 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.
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