The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has issued a flood watch for the Nith River subwatershed, warning that rainfall and melting snow could increase the risk of flooding in low-lying areas. The conservation authority said the watershed already received five to 10 millimetres of precipitation from the freezing rain and snow that fell on Friday. Northern and central portions of the watershed also contain an estimated 30 to 60 millimetres of water equivalent in the existing snowpack. The flood watch applies specifically to the Nith River subwatershed, where runoff from snowmelt combined with rainfall Sunday evening into Monday morning could raise water levels. The conservation authority said flooding is possible in areas typically prone to high water, and municipal flood coordinators in New Hamburg and Ayr are being advised to take appropriate precautions. The water safety statement issued on Dec. 9 remains in effect for the rest of the Grand River watershed. Officials warn that high flows and unstable ice conditions will increase safety risks near rivers and streams. The conservation authority said its major reservoirs — including Belwood, Conestogo, Guelph, Luther, Woolwich, Laurel and Shade’s — are at normal seasonal levels and have capacity to help reduce downstream flooding. Residents are being urged to exercise extreme caution near waterways, keep children and pets away from rivers and streams, and stay off ice-covered waterbodies due to unsafe conditions. The flood watch remains in effect until noon on Friday. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) is warning of rising water levels along Lake Erie, with strong southwesterly winds forecast for Monday. Sustained winds with gusts up to 110 kilometres per hour could push lake levels above the threshold for Flood Zone 1. The MNR said Lake Erie levels near Port Colborne are expected to peak early Monday afternoon. Haldimand County officials are being advised to warn residents and businesses in flood-prone areas along the Lake Erie shoreline and downstream of the Dunnville Dam in Port Maitland. The public is being urged to stay away from the Lake Erie shoreline due to the risk of strong waves and elevated water levels, and to follow directions from local emergency officials. The water safety statement remains in effect until noon on Tuesday, with conditions being monitored closely.
