As the first signs of spring start to appear in the area, the Grand River Conservation Authority is reminding people about the possibility of flooding, and to be aware around rivers, streams and ponds.
“Right now the water is moving quickly, it’s very cold, so we’re urging people especially during March break, keep your kids away. Remind them not to go down to the river, even the smaller streams can get a lot of water in them at this time of year,” said Dave Schultz with the GRCA.
The GRCA doesn’t expect any serious flooding at the moment. The only real areas of concern are low lying areas near rivers and streams but that could change with the weather.
“It’s only early March, there’s still a lot of spring to go. Some of the biggest floods in our watershed have taken place in April,” said Schultz.
“There is still a chance for more precipitation, more snow, so we like the way it’s going so far but we’re still keeping a very close eye on it,” he added.
The GRCA says all the major reservoirs are at low winter holding levels, and have maximum storage available.
They are also warning the public to be careful with pets.
“Ice that might have been safe even two days ago on a pond won’t be safe tomorrow,” Schultz explained.
“It’s not unusual that somebody goes for a walk with the dog, dog gets out on the ice, then you’re into a rescue and that just puts the rescuers at peril,” Schultz said.
