The Grand River Conservation Authority issued a flood warning for New Hamburg, Ayr, and West Montrose in Ontario on March 7, 2026. The warning comes as heavy rain and melting snow cause river levels to rise, while a less severe flood watch is also in place for the rest of the Grand River area.
The current flood risk was triggered by temperatures that climbed into the double digits on March 7, 2026. This warmth, paired with rainfall between 15 and 30 millimetres on Friday and Saturday, caused snow to melt quickly and increased the amount of water flowing into local rivers and streams.
Large reservoirs at Belwood, Conestogo, Guelph, Luther, Woolwich, Laurel, and Shade’s are currently at normal levels for this season. These sites are being used by officials to store water and help lower the peak water levels for communities located further down the river.
Local municipal coordinators in the Township of Wilmot, the Township of North Dumfries, and the Township of Woolwich are monitoring the situation for impacts on roads and properties. Residents are being warned to stay away from riverbanks and avoid any ice-covered water, as high flows and melting ice are unstable and dangerous.
The flood warning and watch are expected to remain in place until 12 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. Officials are asking the public to exercise extreme caution near all waterways during this time.
