Search continues for 2 women last seen in distress on Grand River Saturday night
Emergency crews 'observed treacherous water conditions' upon arrival
Police continue to search for two women who were seen in distress while boating on the Grand River near King Street East and River Road East in Kitchener, Ont., on Saturday night.
Emergency crews were called at 9:30 p.m. ET for reports two people were in trouble.
"The search for the missing individuals commenced that evening, however, it was unsuccessful," Const. Melissa Quarrie with the Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) said during a news conference on Monday.
"The search was paused during the overnight night hours and continued during Sunday and into the morning today," she said.
Police couldn't say the type of vessel the women were in, but said it was a "personal device." That vessel has yet to be located.
In a media release on the weekend, police said that when emergency crews arrived at the scene, they "observed treacherous water conditions," which were "believed it to be a contributing factor."
'Exercise extreme caution' near water: GRCA
The region saw rain last Wednesday and Thursday as remnants of post-tropical storm Beryl moved through the area. The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) issued a reminder to people to be careful on or near local waterways.
River data on the GRCA website shows water levels were elevated in the Grand River through Kitchener Saturday afternoon. It noted that water gauges at Bridgeport Road, Victoria Street in Kitchener and Doon in Kitchener reported that water was "at banks" and low-lying areas were flooded.
On Monday, the GRCA issued a statement about water safety near local rivers, streams and lakes, especially with more rain in the forecast for this week.
"Water levels and flows in rivers and streams throughout the watershed are elevated. The forecasted rain, combined with isolated thunderstorms, will increase water levels further," the statement said.
The authority asked people to "exercise extreme caution" near water.
"Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard," the statement said. "Parents are reminded to keep their children and pets away from all watercourses. Recreational users on local waterways should be aware of the current conditions and exercise additional caution."
Environment Canada's forecast says rain is expected Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 519-570-9777.