A flood warning is in effect for New Hamburg, Ayr, and West Montrose due to rising river levels from recent rain and melting snow.
Warning Details and Affected Areas
The Grand River Conservation Authority activated the flood warning on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. These communities currently face a level one flood risk, with New Hamburg and Ayr potentially escalating to level two on Sunday.
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.
Causes of Rising Water Levels
Saturday brought rain and mild temperatures, accelerating snowmelt and boosting runoff. The watershed received 15 to 30 mm of rain from Friday through Saturday afternoon. Northern snowpack holds substantial water content, and warm conditions combined with possible heavy rain intensify the snowmelt.
Air temperatures will stay above freezing until Wednesday, the warning indicates.
Safety Concerns and Ice Risks
Ice persists on several rivers, including the Grand River, raising the potential for jams. High flows and unstable ice heighten dangers around rivers and streams throughout the watershed.
Officials urge the public to exercise extreme caution near local waterways.
Local and Weather Alerts
Wilmot Township notified New Hamburg residents of the flood warning, advising close monitoring of conditions over the weekend.
Waterloo region, Guelph, and Wellington County faced a yellow rain warning from Environment Canada much of Saturday. Saturday night forecasts include rain and possible thunderstorms, with snow and freezing drizzle likely early Sunday morning.
