More rain could cause flooding in low-lying areas near watercourses and in urban areas if drainage systems are overwhelmed, said a statement issued Monday by the Grand River Conservation Authority.
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The statement said heavy rain that fell across the watershed last week created saturated soil conditions, making it very reactive to further rain on Monday and Tuesday, with a total accumulation of about 40 millimetres expected by Wednesday. Thunderstorms may further increase the amount of rainfall in localized areas.
Water levels and flows in rivers and streams throughout the watershed are elevated and the rain will further increase them, said the statement.
Periods of heavy rain can also cause flows in rivers and streams to increase quickly and without warning.
Discharges from GRCA reservoirs are elevated, in particular from Shand Dam and Conestogo Dam, which will increase the flow in the Grand and Conestogo rivers. The rivers will continue to be operated to manage runoff and reduce downstream flooding.
The public is encouraged to exercise extreme caution around local waterways. Banks adjacent to rivers and creeks are very slippery and, when combined with fast-moving water, pose a serious hazard.
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