Flood Messages

The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is concerned about the use of frozen natural water bodies for on-ice activities such as skating and ice fishing. Recent cold temperatures and early-season snowfall have resulted in the formation of thin ice on local rivers, reservoirs, ponds, and lakes across the watershed. While ice may appear to be forming earlier than in previous years, ice conditions remain highly unstable, unpredictable, and unsafe for any type of recreation.

It is important to note that river systems, reservoirs, and water control structures experience fluctuating water levels and variable flows that prevent stable ice formation. While colder temperatures allow for some ice formation, daily changes in temperature, wind, precipitation and underwater currents greatly affect ice conditions. In many areas, snow cover can also insulate the ice surface, slowing the freezing process and creating hidden weak spots.