Heavy rainfall prompts flood condition update from Grand River Conservation Authority

Waterloo Region has been experiencing some heavy rainfall over the past week, and with more on the way over the next two days, the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has released a message on the potential for flooding.

According to the GRCA, heavy rainfall has created saturated soil conditions, making the watershed “very reactive” to even more rain. The GRCA added that the forecast is calling for an additional 40 mm of rain by Wednesday.

Water levels in the region are elevated, and the flows in rivers and streams are moving quicker than usual. Those conditions are expected to worsen from Monday to Wednesday.

The public is encouraged to “exercise extreme caution” around waterways. Banks near rivers and creeks will be very slippery and pose a serious hazard when considering the fast-moving water.

The conservation authority expects flooding in low-lying areas, and in urban areas if drainage systems are overwhelmed.

“Parents are reminded to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses,” added the GRCA. “Recreational users on local waterways should be aware of the current conditions and exercise additional caution.”

This comes just as police continue to search for two boaters that went missing on the Grand River in Kitchener over the weekend. The pair were said to be in “distress” due to the elevated water levels.