Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety
A large weather system is impacting much of the Grand River watershed and periods of heavy rain are expected to continue through the day today. Some areas in the watershed have already received over 30 mm of rain in the last 6 hours, with more rain expected. Thunderstorms may increase the amount of rainfall in localized areas.
No significant flooding is expected with this event. However, intense rain can cause flows in rivers and streams to increase quickly and without warning. While widespread riverine flooding is not expected, there may be some flooding in low lying areas near watercourses and water may be ponded on roads in urban areas, if drainage systems are overwhelmed.
GRCA Reservoirs
GRCA reservoirs are at their normal operating level for this time of year and will be used to reduce the risk of downstream flooding.
Public safety
The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution around all local waterways. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard. Families are encouraged to keep children and pets away from all watercourses. Recreational users near local waterways should be aware of the current conditions and exercise additional caution.
River conditions and forecasts are being monitored closely, and any flood messages will be issued as needed.
This message will remain in effect until 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 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:
Serena Catania, GRCA Supervisor of Communications and Marketing
Phone 519-621-2763 x2240 | Cell 226-755-0869 | Email scatania@grandriver.ca