Flood watch update - Message #2

The Grand River Conservation Authority has issued a flood watch for our area. Flows are expected to peak in the Grand River through the City of Brantford on Friday evening.

Rainfall and warm temperatures associated with the weather system currently affecting the Grand River watershed will persist through Friday before cooler, dry weather returns for the weekend. It is expected that much of the snow pack will melt during this event, resulting in increased runoff into local waterways. Intact ice sheets in the river are expected to break up and shift during this event, increasing the risk of ice jam flooding.

In advance of the weather and river warnings, the City of Brantford Operational Services Department and the Environmental Services Department have been active in preparing for the rain events and potential ice jam flooding. Flood response plans are in place, which include continuous monitoring of river levels and weather conditions, dike wall and flood gate inspections, road clearing, and flood hot spot inspections. Equipment and staff are in place to respond as necessary. 

Exercise Extreme Caution

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, when combined with current weather conditions, pose a serious hazard. Parents are encouraged to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses and off frozen water bodies, which will be weakened as a result of the warming trend.

Please refer to GRCA’s website for more information. 

 To report severe weather, please email ONstorm@canada.ca or tweet reports using #ONStorm.