Slushie-like frazil ice increases risk of ice jams on Grand River, GRCA warns
People living along parts of Grand River told to 'remain cautious' of possible flooding
Frazil ice could increase the risk of ice jams in the Grand River over the next week, including in West Montrose, Cambridge and Brantford, the Grand River Conservation Authority warns.
Frazil ice is a slushie-like consistency. The icy parts of the slushie mix can stick to ice sheets and broken ice in the water, which can lead to ice jams.
Extreme cold temperatures at night can increase the risk of frazil ice.
"Frazil ice in local waterways may increase the risk of more severe flooding when another snow melt event occurs, depending upon how quickly that event unfolds," the GRCA said in a release.
People who live in areas prone to ice jam flooding should "remain cautious" as ice jams can form quickly and without warning.
"Extremely cold overnight temperatures are forecast to persist into next week. These conditions have the potential to increase frazil ice generation in the river system and further increase the ice jam risk," the GRCA said.
The water safety statement remains in effect until March 8, the GRCA said, although will be updated if necessary as conditions change.
Wilmot township is not mentioned in the GRCA statement, but the township sent out its own release telling people who live in flood-prone areas near the Nith River to be aware of the river conditions.
