The water in swift flowing rivers and streams in the Guelph area began receding Sunday, after heavy rains in recent days brought them to the brink of flooding in several areas.
Hiking trails along the Speed River near the Hanlon Expressway bridge appeared to be the only flooded area within city limits. Barriers had been placed at the location over the weekend, and the flooding was extensive enough to make that section of the trail impassable.
One thing that could be said for certain about Monday’s blue skies is that no rain was falling from them. Guelph has experienced a deluge of rain in recent days, all contributing to unusually high river levels.
The Grand River Conservation Authority terminated its flood warning/watch for the entire watershed on Monday, but the water safety caution remains in effect.
While the water is lowering now that the rain has stopped, GRCA expects rivers and streams to remain high throughout the week. Flows are very fast, and the riverbanks are muddy and slippery.
Guelph Lake is much higher than normal, with small beaches around the reservoir completely submerged. Heavy flows are passing through the Guelph Lake dam. All reservoirs and dams in the system are being used in recent days for flood control.
Water from the rains continues to move through the system, making for some dramatic scenes. The Speed River is churning over the many weirs, and gushing down spillways through Guelph.
The sparking of the sun on water was a welcome sight for the many that strolled through riverside parks Monday morning, enjoying the sun, if not the brisk temperature.
These photos were captured Monday morning along the Speed River, from the Guelph Lake Dam to the Wellington Street Dam.
