Unstable weekend weather could cause ice jams, GRCA says
GRCA reminder to 'remain cautious as ice jams can form quickly and without warning'
The risk of ice jams is heightened this weekend due to warm temperatures and mixed precipitation expected from Grand Valley south to Six Nations, the Grand River Conservation Authority warns.
Ice jams have formed in areas throughout the watershed. While most are weaker jams that formed in early February, the authority warns they all have a risk of causing flooding.
The GRCA notes communities prone to ice jam flooding at this time of year include Grand Valley, West Montrose, New Hamburg, Cambridge, Brantford, Caledonia, Cayuga, as well as Six Nations Territory.
"Residents who live near local waterways are advised to remain cautious as ice jams can form quickly and without warning. In the event of an ice jam, follow the direction of municipal flood coordinators and first responders," a release from the GRCA said.
"The volume of ice in local waterways may increase the risk of more severe flooding during rapid snowmelt events."
Weather a factor
The Environment Canada forecast is calling for a sunny high of 0 Celcius on Saturday during the day, with a drop to -1 C overnight, then a high of 4 C on Sunday, but with periods of rain.
Then temperature will drop to -6 Sunday overnight.
It will warm up to 0 C on Monday, but again dropping to -11 C.
The GRCA warns people to be cautious near waterways and to stay off all bodies of water right now. That includes keeping children and pets away from water.
"Ice cover, where it exists, will be weakened as a result of the warming trend," the GRCA said.
"Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with cold, fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard."