Canada Day storms led to rescue efforts on Guelph Lake
Posted Jul 2, 2026 04:49:37 PM.
Last Updated Jul 2, 2026 05:14:53 PM.
Wednesday’s fast moving and intense storm system resulted in emergency services having to rescuing a total of ten people from Guelph Lake.
The heavy winds, lightning and rain moved over the conservation area just before 5 p.m. Shortly after, the Guelph Fire Department’s Specialty Water Rescue Team was dispatched to the lake with a water rescue boat and back-up from several fire stations.
Grand River Conservation Authority staff were able to point the rescue team to the last known location of two paddleboarders reported to be in distress.
The team located one individual holding onto to a kayak. Another person was found in open water. Both were safely returned to shore.
While out in the lake, the rescue team spotted several other individuals needing assistance. A total of eight people were returned to the main dock.
Multiple Guelph-Wellington paramedic units were dispatched to check over the individuals rescued. No injuries were reported and nobody needed to be taken to hospital.
The OPP’s Specialty Water Rescue Team arrived to assist, preforming a secondary sweep of the lake. It’s a good thing they did, two paddleboarders were found sitting on the shore. They had lost their equipment in the wind and blown ashore.
While on scene, there was a report of a missing mother and child who had been out kayaking. They were found safe on the main beach.
In a statement, Guelph Deputy Fire Chief, Jonathan Wilker thanked the GRCA staff for providing critical assistance and helping the responders find those initial individuals.
He extended those thanks to paramedic services and the OPP for their roll.
Wilker added, “This incident highlights exactly what our Specialty Water Rescue personnel train for year-round, from open-water rescues to ice rescue operations. Our teams are constantly prepared to respond rapidly when lives are on the line, and their swift actions yesterday helped prevent a major tragedy.”
Your Community
