The Grand River Conservation Authority has issued a Flood Watch for low-lying areas along the Grand River. Warm temperatures, rainfall and snowmelt runoff have caused river levels to rise. Flooding is likely to occur in low-lying areas typically prone to spring flooding.

Flows on local waterways throughout the Grand River watershed will remain elevated through the rest of this week. Ice on local waterways, where it still exists, may break up and shift during this event, increasing the risk of ice jam flooding.

Haldimand County Emergency Services urges residents to stay away from water bodies as the combination of slippery banks and cold, fast-flowing water is extremely dangerous. Parents are reminded to keep children and pets away from these areas.

Landowners are also advised to make sure dams, culverts, and catch basins are free from debris and functioning properly. Helpful resources for property owners regarding flood preparedness are available at HaldimandCounty.ca/emergency-preparedness and HaldimandCounty.ca/floods.

Water levels are expected to remain elevated for the remainder of the week. Both conservation authority & Emergency Services staff will continue to monitor watershed conditions, issue updated flood messages and respond as necessary.

This message will remain in effect until 4:00pm on Thursday, March 12, 2020.