GRCA Flood Message #1 – Combined Flood Warning and Flood Watch

The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is issuing a Flood Warning message for the communities of West Montrose and Kitchener and a Flood Watch message for the communities of New Hamburg and Ayr. The previous Watershed Conditions - Water Safety message for the remainder of the Grand River watershed remains in effect.

Weather forecast

A precipitation system, which has been active since Monday, April 13, has delivered 20 to 50 mm of rain across the watershed. With more rain in the forecast, another 20 mm of precipitation is expected on Wednesday, April 15, and Thursday, April 16. Some areas may see higher rainfall totals due to thunderstorms. River levels are increasing as a result of this event and may further increase due to additional rainfall.

Flood Warning (Action) Message for West Montrose

River flows are expected to reach Flood Warning Zone 1 in West Montrose in the morning on Wednesday, April 15. Municipal flood coordinators in the Township of Woolwich have been advised to notify affected properties and monitor conditions. Residents are encouraged to refer to the guide on the GRCA’s website for information regarding flood warning zones.

Flood Warning (Action) Message for Kitchener

River flows are expected to exceed flood thresholds in Kitchener and may impact low lying areas subject to flooding. Municipal flood coordinators in City of Kitchener have been advised to monitor conditions and take necessary actions.

Flood Watch Message for Communities along Nith River

The observed rainfall is expected to generate significant runoff, leading to rising water levels. As a result, this event will increase the potential risk of flooding in areas typically prone to flooding. Municipal flood coordinators in New Hamburg and Ayr are advised to monitor conditions and take appropriate precautions.

GRCA Reservoirs

GRCA reservoirs are being used to route the inflows and reduce the risk of downstream flooding.

Stay safe 

Higher flows will increase the safety risk around rivers, streams, and waterbodies throughout the watershed. Banks adjacent to local waterways are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution around local waterways.

River conditions and forecasts are being monitored closely, and additional flood messages will be issued as needed.

This message will remain in effect until 12 p.m. on Monday, April 20, 2026. 

More information

• For more information on flows, weather and reservoir conditions see the River Data section of the GRCA website.
• 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 X at grca_flood_msg.
• More information about how the GRCA’s role in managing floods is available in the Flooding section of the website.
• Copies of the GRCA’s River Safety Rules booklet is available by contacting the GRCA Administration Centre.

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Media contacts:

Lisa Stocco, GRCA Director of Strategic Communications and Environmental Education
Phone 519-621-2763 x2316 | Email lstocco@grandriver.ca

Serena Catania, GRCA Supervisor of Communications and Marketing
Phone 519-621-2763 x2240 | Email scatania@grandriver.ca