NEWS RELEASE
GRAND RIVER CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
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Watershed conditions statement – Water safety
Warmer temperatures forecast beginning Family Day weekend
The mild temperatures this Family Day weekend and into next week are expected to melt some of the snowpack remaining in the northern part of the watershed, which is generally of average depth at present. River flows throughout the watershed are expected to rise above normal as melting continues.
Intact ice will be expected to thin and move with some open water channels appearing, particularly on the rivers.
No major flooding is anticipated at this time, although flooding of low lying areas immediately adjacent to water courses is possible.
As always, the Grand River Conservation Authority will monitor river conditions and weather forecasts, and updates will be issued as needed.
This statement will remain in effect until Friday, Feb. 24, 2017.
Stay safe
While air temperatures are expected to rise above normal, water temperatures are very cold. Anyone going into the water could fall victim to hypothermia within minutes, losing feeling in arms and legs and then becoming unconscious. The public is reminded to exercise extreme caution around all water bodies. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery at this time and, and when combined with warmer conditions and melting snow and ice, pose a serious hazard. Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses and off frozen water bodies, which may be weakened as a result of the melt.
Grand River Parks
While a number of Grand River Parks will be open and offering some winter programming, it’s important to note that winter programs and activities are subject to change, based on weather conditions. In particular, ice fishing may be cancelled on short notice, if ice conditions are deemed unsafe. Visitors should call the park they are planning to visit in order to find out which activities are available.
More information
- For more information on flows, weather and reservoir conditions see the River Data section of the GRCA website.
- Safety information for parents and children is available in the GRCA’s River Safety Rules booklet.
- More information on the flood warning system is available on the GRCA website.
- Receive GRCA flood messages by e-mail by subscribing through the GRCA website.
- Follow GRCA flood messages on Twitter.
- More information about how the GRCA manages floods is available in the flooding section of the website.
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