Southwestern Ontario was supposed to get more than 50 millimetres of rain on Sunday, prompting a safety warning from the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA). “Intense rain can cause flows in rivers and streams to increase quickly and without warning,” they wrote at 9:30 a.m. “Some areas in the watershed have already received over 30 mm of rain in the last 6 hours, with more rain expected.” The GRCA was not expecting any significant flooding but there could be isolated incidents in low-lying areas. “The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution around all local waterways,” the message said. “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.” The GRCA said reservoirs would be used to reduce the risk of downstream flooding. They will also monitor levels on the Grand River throughout the day. The water safety message will remains in effect until Tuesday, Aug. 4 at 12 p.m.
