A flood warning is now in effect for New Hamburg, Ayr, and West Montrose due to rising river levels from recent rain and melting snow.
Causes of Rising Water Levels
Saturday brought rain and mild temperatures that accelerated snowmelt, boosting water levels in local rivers. The Grand River Conservation Authority activated the warning at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.
The broader Grand River watershed—from Dundalk in the north to Lake Erie in the south, encompassing Waterloo region, Guelph, and Wellington County—remains under a flood watch.
Weather and Forecast Outlook
Air temperatures will stay above freezing through Wednesday. The region received 15 to 30 mm of rain from Friday through Saturday afternoon.
“The snowpack in the northern part of the watershed holds a significant amount of water content. Warm temperatures combined with rain, which may be heavy at times, are resulting in snowmelt and increased runoff,” the warning states.
Waterloo region, Guelph, and Wellington County faced a yellow weather warning for rain much of Saturday. Saturday night calls for rain and possible thunderstorms, with snow and freezing drizzle likely early Sunday morning.
Flood Risk Levels and Ice Concerns
Ayr, New Hamburg, and West Montrose currently face a level one flood risk. New Hamburg and Ayr may escalate to level two on Sunday.
Ice persists on several rivers, including the Grand River, raising the potential for ice jams. “High flows and unstable ice conditions will increase the safety risk around rivers and streams throughout the watershed. The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution around local waterways,” the authority advises.
Wilmot Township has also notified New Hamburg residents to monitor conditions closely over the weekend.
